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.
