A California high school has sparked heated debate after administrators warned students not to chant “USA” during sporting events and rallies — a decision that has left many parents and students questioning whether patriotism is being mistaken for intolerance.
At Vista Del Lago High School in Folsom, California, the “USA” chant has long been a spirited tradition, used by students to show pride and unity during games and school events. But recently, school officials advised against it, claiming the chant could be perceived as exclusionary or insensitive in certain contexts.
“I wasn’t angry, but I was definitely like, ‘Why can’t we chant USA?’” senior Ryan Bernal told KOVR. “To say ‘USA’ — you know, we’re all the same. We’re all American. It doesn’t matter what your skin tone is or where you’re from.”
The issue was first raised during a leadership class, where staff discussed how displays of school spirit can sometimes unintentionally offend others. The district’s communications director, Daniel Thigpen, emphasized the intent behind the message. “To practice empathy, to practice kindness and to practice patriotism — you can do both,” he said.
According to KOVR, some schools across the country have reported instances where “USA” chants were used mockingly toward students of different ethnic backgrounds. Those incidents have prompted administrators to tread carefully.
“There’s a time and a place to yell that and cheer that,” said Mike Garrison of the California Interscholastic Federation, noting that the chant has occasionally been misused in competitive settings.
Vista Del Lago’s principal reinforced the concern in an email sent to district families, as well as over the school’s public address system. The message urged students to be mindful of how their words might be perceived, stating that “sometimes by using the chant, we can communicate an unintended message.”
Still, many in the community see the move as an overcorrection. For students like Bernal, the “USA” chant was never about division — it was about pride, unity, and shared identity. And their reaction to the warning reportedly made officials realize just how deeply that sentiment runs.
The principal later clarified that the “USA” chant is still welcome at Vista Del Lago High School — but only at appropriate times, such as after the Pledge of Allegiance or following the national anthem.
“I want to chant USA because I want us to pull together and help, not because I want anybody to feel left out or not a part of our country,” said parent Natalie Woodbury, emphasizing unity over division.
District officials also stressed that there is no official ban on chanting “USA,” seeking to calm the uproar that had quickly spread through the community.
However, the clarification did little to quiet frustration among parents and community members. On Facebook, readers voiced strong opinions about the school’s decision.
“It is principals like this one that are little by little destroying our public schools, and that is SAD!” one commenter wrote. “Be thankful the students were attending their school’s sporting events and voiced their love for our country, the Grand Old USA. Shame on the leadership of that school.”
Another user echoed the sentiment, writing, “Intolerable and offensive? Are you serious! You kids chant ‘USA’ as loud as you can! Thank the Lord for you kids! Hold your ground to your First Amendment, God-given right! We’re all so proud of you! God bless you all!”
