Give Us a Choice: Petition Against Mandatory Skirts in High School Uniform

Dear fellow students, parents and well wishers,

 We are writing to express our concerns about the recent decision by The Learning Curve International to make skirts the new formal uniform for high school and middle school girls. We strongly believe that this decision is unfair and unnecessary, and we request that the administration reconsider their choice.

As students, we have already paid for a uniform just six months ago, and now we are being asked to purchase a new one. This is not only inconvenient but also a waste of money, and a financial burden to many families. Implementing this uniform will only serve to further divide us and act as a physical signifier of our sexes, which goes against the gender equality attitudes promoted by the management.

Many of us would prefer to have the option of wearing trousers. Forcing girls to wear skirts will result in the policing of our behaviour and bodies, such as being asked to sit with knees closed or being judged about how long or short the skirt is.

These actions are among the many indignities that generations of women have faced due to being forced to wear skirts.

We firmly believe that everyone should have the freedom to wear what they feel comfortable in, regardless of their gender. Those who enjoy wearing skirts can still do so, while those who do not should be able to wear trousers. This could be due to preference, comfort, mobility, or religious beliefs.

We want to draw attention to the management's proposal that girls carry their track pants and change in the restrooms every time they want to play in the playground. This will make it difficult for girls who wish to play games in the playground as they will be constantly worried about the appropriateness of their clothing.

Aside from that, some girls prefer wearing pants during their menstrual cycle as it provides a sense of protection during painful periods each month. Forcing them to wear skirts would be uncomfortable as well as unhygienic

Our plea to the administration is to reconsider their decision and grant girls the autonomy to choose their formal uniform. This will not only foster respect and equality among students but also foster a sense of inclusivity and acceptance within our school community.

Hence, we strongly implore the administration to contemplate the practical and emotional implications of their decision and permit girls to wear pants if they wish to do so. This will foster inclusivity, comfort, and uphold the bodily autonomy and dignity of all students.

Concerned Parties    Contact the author of the petition