Schools should set standards for dress

Despite the end of segregation and the civil rights movement, problems with race and equality still come up today.

More than 150 students walked out of Hopkins High School Feb. 13 because they felt the “ghetto” spirit day dress code for the Nordic ski team was a mockery of black culture, according to Minnesota Public Radio (MPR). The team dressed up like gangsters with sagging pants, chinchilla coats with chains and joints in their ears according to MPR. Two students complained to  the school administration but were told it was too late to do anything about the dress code.

The dress codes chosen by sports teams and clubs at Park are not racially offensive, but most schools do not have a set standard on what is offensive, including Park. What is offensive to one person may not be to others. According to athletic director Andy Ewald, sports teams are told to follow the student dress code and sports uniforms. Park spirit T-shirts and dress clothes are suggested.  According to Ewald, athletes must keep in mind that they are projecting the image of their team and themselves.

Setting standards for what is considered to be offensive and insulting clothing would prevent problems similar to what happened at Hopkins.

Park dress codes may not be offensive but are inappropriate at times. By wearing clothing that is too short such as skirts, shorts and dresses, problems regarding offensive dress code are bound to happen. The School Board should make clear what is considered offensive in the student handbook, set standards that give examples and express guidelines to parents. Furthermore, there should be set consequences if an incident like  Hopkins were to happen again.

The administration should educate its students on the cultures around them today. Sports teams should be conscientious to others when choosing dress codes. Students need to be aware of the issues of racism that still exist in society.