Kristin Pitzen, a teacher at Newport Mesa School District in California, sparked outrage in 2021 after posting a TikTok video where she joked about removing the American flag from her classroom because it made her feel “uncomfortable.” Instead, she encouraged students to pledge allegiance to the pride flag, which she displayed on the wall.

In another video, Pitzen showed off her pride-themed classroom and said, “I pledge allegiance to the queers,” expressing her support for LGBTQ+ students. While some praised her inclusivity, many parents and community members were angered, accusing her of disrespecting the American flag and pushing a personal agenda.

The backlash led to parents placing American flags around the school in protest. One parent, whose son is in the military, emphasized the importance of teaching respect for national symbols. Pitzen has since deleted her social media and is no longer in the classroom. The school district launched an investigation, reigniting national debate.