Here we go again: It is “controversial” that some spectators wore USA colors at an Iowa state high school basketball tournament game on Wednesday evening.
Fans of Des Moines North High School took issue with supporters of Valley High for their choice of attire. Valley’s school colors are black and orange, but many in the stands had decided to wear the traditional colors of the USA.
“A lot of people were very upset about it,” North sophomore DeNasja Spencer said, as reported by KCCI.
“Even if that was their theme for the game, I feel like they should have switched that because everyone knows North is a more diverse school.”
But those from Valley say the USA-theme is nothing new — the school has done it “many times in the past” according to one student.
WHO-TV.com reports North HS Assistant Coach Morgan Wheat wasn’t buying it: “Any normal person, any educated person can look at that and think what the hell are these kids thinking.
“Kids are kids, I get it, but I do have questions. I want to know why.”
The North HS b-ball squad is “filled with players who come from refugee families,” WHO adds.
Student leaders from Valley ended up hand-delivering an apology to North’s principal:
It has been brought to our attention that the decision by the Valley High School student section to wear U.S.A. apparel at our game last night was offensive to members of your community and fan base. We are deeply sorry if we have offended anyone in any way. We have traditionally dressed in such a fashion for great games such as the one last night. Everyone here at Valley has immense respect not only for your team and players but for your community as a whole. Please know that our intent was in no way to offend or demean—just to support our own team in a way we have done before.
What does it say about how people react — not to mention the very meaning of the word “diversity” — when the red, white, and blue of the American flag is considered … demeaning? Can’t refugees and immigrants be patriotic too?
Read the full articles.
MORE: University bans American flag to combat ‘hate-based violence’
MORE: HS bans American flag at football game b/c opponent ‘large Hispanic community’
Like The College Fix on Facebook / Follow us on Twitter
Please join the conversation about our stories on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, MeWe, Rumble, Gab, Minds and Gettr.