A student in Maryland wanted to show her Native American heritage by walking across the stage in a ceremonial dress under her graduation gown and moccasins.
“I want to have that connection to my Navajo side as I walk across that stage,” she told FOX 5.
She decided to check with her principal, to make sure she would be allowed to wear it, but she was told that she could wear the dress because it wasn’t visible under the graduation grown, but not the shoes or leggings.
The moccasins have special significance, she said. They were the same ones she wore during a four-day coming-of-age ritual when she was 11 years old.
The student started an online petition on https://www.change.org/ and already has more than 1,500 signatures of support. I feel as though a student should be able to wear what they want at their graduation as long as its appropriate for school. What is more appropriate than a formal ceremonial dress? The principal claims that it violates the dress code of black shoes only but this seems to be unreasonable given the cultural importance for this student. It seems to be a violation of the1st Amendment. Of course it would not be the first time in American history that our natives are treated unfairly.
Do you think there is value in school dress codes? You can vote on the issue by CLICKING HERE..
You can read this story here:
http://www.fox5dc.com/news/local-news/149603269-story
kplayuk • Sep 7, 2016 at 2:18 pm
I am puzzled as to why this school in Maryland would not allow her to wear what she wanted to graduation, There is no vulgarity or inappropriate significance in her choice of wardrobe. She simply wanted to her right to express her religion freedom, I do hope the school’s principal got what he or she deserved…however, they might’ve not gotten in trouble but Im sure embarrassment and harsh comments towards them were enough of a punishment, for him or her to learn to accept all religious practices.
Jchavez92 • Jun 1, 2016 at 12:27 pm
I believe this is extremely unfair and well for one she should have the right to wear what she wants underneath her cap and gown not only did she pay for what she wears but its her human rights to be able to wear her traditional clothing after all this is the land of freedom. right?