By: Tyler Shaw and Cali McPeak
What is Title IX? Title IX is primarily associated with equal access to sports and protection against sexual harassment, its reach extends to all aspects of education, including dress codes. Under Title IX, schools are prohibited from enforcing dress codes in an unfair manner based on gender. This means that girls and boys should be treated equally when it comes to clothing restrictions. Often dress codes commonly affect feminine attire. Shoulder coverage, neckline, and midriff are usual elements in dress codes that have disproportionately affected female students. Dress codes have been also enforced in a way that objectifies and sexualizes female students. The emphasis on modesty and covering up can accidentally send the message that a student’s worth or professionalism is determined by their attire. The sexism within these politics is further evident in the disproportionately disciplined measures applied to female students. They may face disciplinary actions, like suspension or detention, for perceived dress code violations more frequently than their male counterparts, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and fostering an environment where gender-based discrimination is normalized and learning for female students comes second to the comfort of men.
We asked Southeast high school government teacher Monica Kiskadden if she felt that dress codes treated all genders equally she said, “ In many places, dress codes were created to help students not feel anxious about not wearing cool clothes, but I don’t think it is always successful. I have worn a school uniform. It was a men’s polo and men’s khakis. They were not meant to fit women.” This shows that dress codes were not created equally and women have it very poorly. Many young girls have been sent home and taken out of their classes for dress code violations including Kiskadden. “In middle school, I wore a concert t-shirt that my principal did not like. He felt it was too racy!” Nowadays it is almost impossible for a guy to get sent home for something that he wears to school. One main argument for dress codes being a good thing in schools is that it helps keep school appropriate for strictly learning and that nothing is distracting during school hours. Kiskadden says, “Clothes can be distracting, but also allow a student and teacher to express who they are. Clothing can be a great way to break the ice with someone.” Kiskadden has a great argument for this topic because students do need to express themselves.
In conclusion, dress codes, when enforced without nuance, can demonstrate sexist stereotypes and undermine Title IX’s goal of promoting equal opportunities for women. By policing women’s attire more harshly than men’s, schools inadvertently send a message that women’s bodies are inherently disruptive and need to be controlled. This not only stifles self-expression but also reinforces harmful gender norms. To truly uphold Title IX, schools must revisit their dress codes, engaging with students and staff to create policies that promote inclusivity, respect, and equality. By doing so, we can create an environment where women feel empowered to express themselves without fear of judgment or restriction.
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