North Carolina High School Graduate Given Diploma After Being Denied One For Walking With Mexican Flag Over His Gown

A North Carolina high school graduate, was finally given his diploma after being initially denied by the school’s principal for walking with a Mexican flag over his graduation gown. 

According to ABC News, Ever Lopez, 18, received his diploma after he and his parents met with Asheboro High School Principal Penny Crooks. As he emerged from the building after the meeting, Lopez said, “At the end, you know, we came out with it,” referring to his diploma.

Lopez said he wanted to wear the Mexican flag to honor his roots and his parents, both Mexican immigrants. He also said there is nothing regarding flags in the school’s graduation dress code. 

Before Monday’s meeting with school officials, Lopez’s mother said that the family wishes the school would change the dress code policy to prevent incidents like this one from happening in the future. She also said she and her husband would like an apology along with their son’s diploma. 

Lopez told the outlet that Crooks said she was open to the idea of amending the dress code for graduation. It was not immediately made clear whether or not she apologized to Lopez’s parents.

On Monday, Asheboro City Schools officials released a statement saying, “The graduate picked up his diploma at Asheboro High School … As with all graduates, we wish him well, and we will continue to serve our community in ways that help all young people meet their full potential.”