The First Amendment of the Constitution states that people have the right to freedom of speech. As a fashion enthusiast, the way I dress is a form of expression, and music and art is also an outlet of expression for many other individuals. However, the school system immediately takes away our rights to freedom of speech with rules regarding dress code. As females, we are told we are not allowed to wear clothing that is too low cut or showing too much skin. Why? Because it is inappropriate and distracting. It is incredibly sexist and offensive to tell someone what they are wearing is inappropriate for school or too distracting. If someone is comfortable and confident in what they wear, what gives you the right to make them feel self conscious?
Please sign my petition to ask El Toro High School to end its sexist dress code!
We are told that school is a "safe haven" however, I did not feel safe when I was told I wasn't allowed to wear what I was wearing. When girls are told they can't wear something because it is distracting, they are being objectified. Girls shouldn't be punished for what they wear because what we wear is what makes us happy. After being told what I was wearing was not appropriate for school, my self esteem was instantly lowered and felt violated. What makes you determine what I can and cannot wear? All that should matter is what makes me happy. Females should not be the ones getting in trouble for males sexualizing them. It is sexist to punish someone based on what they wear because it may be distracting to my peers education.
I was called out of class for ten minutes to be told what I was wearing was wrong, which was unfair to my education. In order to potentially protect someone else's education, mine was harmed in the process. Along with being self deprecating, the school also contributes to rape culture and the sexualization of women.
Women should, under no circumstances and regarding no setting, be shamed for what they wear. School officials may believe they are preparing their students to be more professional but they have completely forgotten about the students who plan on pursuing art, music, acting, or any other job without a dress code. Instead of shaming those who feel confident enough in their own bodies and what they wear, we should applaud and support them. Rather than blaming women for the clothes, men, if anyone, should be blamed for sexualizing women. Start teaching students that they can express themselves through what they wear. Teach males not to sexualize women. We are not preparing students for the real world if we put restrictions and what they can wear. Stop punishing women for being confident in their own bodies.
Please sign my petition to put an end to the dress code at El Toro High School!
