The Purpose of this New Perspective
There are blatantly apparent differences in the way girls and boys are treated at school based on their gender and their clothing. The time has come for everyone to step back and consider the lessons being taught, intentionally or unintentionally, to young students through administrators' and teachers' discourse on what is "appropriate" and "inappropriate" clothing according to the dress codes. The truth is that sexuality is socially constructed and because schools are one of the most respected sources of information for students, this is where a large percentage of students learn what feelings and behaviors are acceptable and which are not. Instead of being publicly shamed for having their bodies exposed, girls need to learn to be proud of their bodies and understanding of their sexuality on their own terms. One of the most common arguments made to support the strict dress codes requirements for girls is that they are a distraction for boys. Stories of girls being harassed, sent home, shamed or asked to change into overs-sized gym clothes due to what they came to school in can be seen across the country. The issue of sexism in the classroom persists across time, culture, socio-economic status, ethnicity, and grade level. Many brave girls have begun speaking out against these sexist dress code requirements, and this website is designed to help in this fight because it is one of the first steps towards a school environment that actually supports young girls' sexual development and well-being.
Food for Thought
To read about the importance behind this fight against sexist school dress codes visit The Current Events and The Science tabs at the top of the page.