South Carolina Teen Forced To Remove American Flag From The Back Of His Truck, Outrage Ensues

Peyton Robinson loves his country, so he decided to let the world know. Robinson reportedly hung an American flag and a POW-MIA flag on the back of his truck before driving to school. But, unfortunately, he had no idea the seemingly innocent display of patriotism would be met with opposition.

When he arrived at York Comprehensive High School in York, South Carolina, school officials asked him to remove the flag after receiving complaints. Apparently, some people found the gesture offensive, WCNC reports. Out of frustration over the controversial directive, Robinson took to Instagram to voice his concerns.

“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 flys 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”

Many students echoed Robinson’s frustrations and decided to take action. On Thursday, May 14, school administrators were met with a massive flag rally, consisting of students, parents, and other community members who came out to wave their own flags in solidarity. The protest even caught the attention of local news stations and numerous online news outlets.

When asked what his reason was for riding with the American flag on his truck, Robinson simply said, “Just proud to be an American citizen.”

During a recent interview with WBTV, he explained why school administrators ordered him to take the flag down.

“[A school administrator] said we’re having some issues. Some people were complaining about the flags in your truck, possibly offend them. [The administrator] asked me to take it down.”

The overwhelming response to Robinson’s ordeal has led the school to make an exception, allowing Robinson to keep the flag on his truck. However, there will be size restrictions on flags to avoid potential “driving hazards.”

“Due to the outstanding display of patriotism through peaceful demonstration, it is apparent to us that many are not happy about this policy. School officials have reviewed the standing policy regarding flags and have decided that an exception will be made for the American flag, as long as the size of the flag(s) does not create a driving hazard.

“We appreciate the passion and pride of all who have called or come by YCHS over the past 24 hours. America was founded by Patriots who led positive change in a myriad of ways. We believe today is a great example of peaceful demonstration leading to positive change. This is the very process we advocate in our Social Studies classrooms and the fabric of American citizenship. Thank you for helping us as we educate the students of our community.”

Do you think it’s offensive to hang an American flag from the back of a truck? Share your thoughts.

[Image via Instagram]