Dress up, Speak Up: Empowering Girls

by D.K.

Middle schools across the country are facing scrutiny for imposing strict dress codes on girls and not boys. This has led to a growing debate over whether these codes are necessary in the first place. Questions of fairness arise and even people question if this sort of discrimination is even legal.

The issue revolves around the fact that many middle schools have implemented dress codes that prohibit girls from wearing shorts or any clothing that shows their shoulders. Meanwhile, the dress code for boys is much more relaxed; in stark contrast, boys can wear clothes like tank tops without fearing punishment.

Some argue that imposing dress codes are necessary to prevent distractions in the classroom, while others believe that they are simply a way to police girls' bodies and promote sexist attitudes. Critics of dress codes point out that they are often enforced in a discriminatory manner, with larger girls and those of color facing harsher scrutiny than their white or thinner counterparts.

The issue has gained attention on social media platforms like Instagram and Tiktok; many girls have followed the trend of posting photos of themselves in clothes not allowed in their classrooms with the hashtag #MyBodyMyChoice. The movement has sparked a national conversation about gender inequality and the importance of empowering women.

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D.K. is a student from the United States. In her free time, she reads mysteries, plays guitar, roller-skates around her neighborhood, and volunteers in her community. She believes True to You will help youth raise awareness of community issues.