School Does About-Face on American Flag Ban
Officially, June 14th is Flag Day. But one patriotic teen decided to make every day flag day -- until his high school stepped in.
Officials at South Carolina's York Comprehensive High School unbolted a 4-foot by 6-foot American flag from Peyton Robinson's truck, allegedly because the Stars and Stripes were offending some people. But now it's the school defending its national pride while backtracking from the flag ban.
Don't Tread On Me
After his flag's removal, Robinson took to that most American soapbox, Instagram, to air his grievances against the school's tyranny:
"I've been told by 2 administrators at my school this morning that I can't have an American Flag on my truck because other people have complained about it. Well let me tell you something, I have every right to fly an American flag. It will not be coming off of my truck. This really pisses me off. I ask that everyone that sees this post that attends York Comprehinsive[sic] flys[sic] an American flag of some sort on whatever they may drive to school tomorrow to prove a point. I will not let this go down without a fight. "#America #fightforourright
Robinson's hashtagged plea for liberty did not go unanswered. Like-minded nationalists, many of them fellow students, joined him in protest, proudly displaying Old Glory on their own vehicles the next day.
In fact, it was this display of national pride that swayed school rulers officials: "Due to the outstanding display of patriotism through peaceful demonstration, it is apparent to us that many are not happy about this policy." No they are not, King George. The school amended its flag policy, saying only those flags that create a driving hazard will be banned.
Flag Rules
If you're wondering how to display the flag legally and like the greatest American hero, we've got a few quick tips:
- At the proper time;
- Not as clothing; and
- "Fixed firmly to the chassis or clamped to the right fender."
While it doesn't look like that's where Robinson positioned his Star-Spangled Banner, sometimes you've just got to let your free flag fly.
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Related Resources:
- York school changes American flag policy after demonstration (Charlotte's WCNC)
- SCOTUS Won't Hear Students' American Flag Free Speech Case (FindLaw's Ninth Circuit)
- 5 Rules for Displaying the U.S. Flag at Your Business (FindLaw's Free Enterprise)
- Celebrate Flag Day With 3 Fun Legal Facts (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
