At Lumberton High School, in Texas, the cheer team performed a tribute to 9/11 victims using the sounds of the Twin Towers falling. The dance also featured “God Bless the U.S.A.” and George Bush’s initial speech addressing the nation on the tragedy. The squad ends the performance by displaying a large American flag and shaping their pom poms to spell out ‘U.S.A.’
This video has caused a lot of controversy online as some find it inappropriate or disrespectful. Comments on the YouTube post have been disabled due to the negativity. The captain of their cheer team, Abbie Tweedel insists that the tribute was not taken lightly,
“Our coaches reminded us every day what it was for and to be very serious about it.”
The squad’s coach, Lauren Sheffield, also defended the tribute to critics,
“We do this because we believe it is very important to honor and remember the first responders, those who gave their lives, and those who still mourn the hole left by lost loved ones.”
This video was not filmed in disrespect or to use the tragic events that took place 14 years ago, but to sincerely honor the 9/11 victims. Many have described it as “chilling.”
The cheer team has been performing this unique tribute since 2001, this is just the first time the performance has received so much attention and praise.
