In 2017, a heated argument broke out at California’s Vista Del Lago High School about pride and acceptance.
Students were told not to say “USA” during sports games because the school was afraid it would be seen as racist.
Students like Ryan Bernal didn’t understand why showing national pride was a problem. Principal
Michael Garrison said that the song wasn’t necessarily wrong, but that it should be used with care because it has been used inappropriately to insult racial groups in the past.
Officials from the district made it clear that there was no total ban, but they did encouragemindful use.
The choice caused a lot of disagreement. Some were upset, while others supported the students’ right to freely show their patriotism.
