Eleanor Roosevelt High School is one of the few public schools in Prince Georges County that has a no uniform policy. Other high schools like Parkdale, Duval, Bladensburg, Northwestern, Laurel, and Charles H. Flowers all have policies that require their students to wear uniforms.

I believe that the no uniform policy helps us, the students, discover ourselves sooner. The way that we present ourselves can sometimes show our inner-self. One’s appearance matters, but if all students are dressing the same then there is nothing unique expressed for each student individually.

Senior Olufunke Awowale said that “uniforms conform to gender alignment and here we are restricted by gender norms”.

Nancy E. Bailey, PHD, an education author and activist wrote in her book, Misguided Education Reform,: “public schools can still have dress codes without resorting to mandatory uniforms”. This is exactly what ERHS has, guidelines that state what is appropriate and what is inappropriate to wear on school grounds. This still allows students to express themselves freely.

Not having to wear uniforms gives us freedom of expression “which also helps the LGBT community” Awowale continued. This policy cannot be revoked because “parents are supportive in not having to wear school uniforms” she concluded.

The dress code isn’t always respected, which leads to  abuse of the no uniform policy. I feel that it lets us express ourselves, especially our different styles and uniqueness. However, this is no excuse; the dress code should be respected at all times.

I believe this policy also gives us courage to be ourselves, especially among others. This also reinforces the courage to resist peer pressure and realize that being different isn’t bad at all. This idea of individualism can mature with us.

Other schools should consider the no uniform policy. High school is where we begin to learn who we are and become comfortable with ourselves. This is where self-discovery begins, and looking like everyone else around us doesn’t make it any easier. I believe the no uniform policy is a step in the right direction.

The only place that comes to mind when I think of somewhere where everyone dresses the same is prison. We might as well be called inmates without this policy. We are all different and I think it’s about time other schools start seeing it the way Eleanor Roosevelt High School does, and let the students express themselves…with a dress code attached of course.

In order to promote individuality over conformity, apply the no uniform policy.