Colorado school bans flag waving following racial tensions

The Associated Press

LONGMONT, Colo. -- About 100 students protested a temporary school policy forbidding them from displaying the U.S. flag -- as well as flags from other countries.

The move comes amid racial tensions following immigration rallies.

WHAT THE SCHOOL SAYS

Skyline High School principal Tom Stumpf said American flags were brazenly waved in the faces of Hispanic students and in one case a Mexican flag was thrown into the face of another student.

"When it involves the American flag and its abuse in vilifying other people, we simply will not tolerate it," Stumpf said. "They were using the symbol derisively as misguided patriotism."

WHAT THE STUDENTS SAY

Student Dustin Carlson told Denver station KCNC-TV that he was suspended for two days.

"I'm getting suspended for it and personally I think that's uncalled for," he said. "If this country means freedom, then why can't we fly our own flag? It's ridiculous."

IMMIGRATION RALLIES

Thousands of high school students Friday in California, Texas, Nevada and other states protested the tough immigration laws proposed in the House. Some waved Mexican flags and carried signs saying "We are not criminals."