Articles of Interest School Uniforms
Jun 18, 2025
Grace Tarducci, an independent filmmaker and former Catholic school student, shares her rebellious fashion choices that highlight the struggle between individuality and conformity. Historian Rachel Lissy dives into the contentious debates surrounding school uniforms, exploring their historical roots and cultural significance in American education. Professor Sally Dwyer McNulty discusses the evolution of dress codes and their impact on student identity and expression, revealing the complex relationship between attire, societal norms, and personal dignity.
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Grace's Uniform Rebellion
- Grace Tarducci rebelled against Catholic school uniform rules with dyed hair and accessories.
- Her actions led to disciplinary actions including being told to dye her hair a natural color.
Uniform Styles Aren't Evolving
- School uniforms often reflect antiquated, Eurocentric prep school styles unchanged for decades.
- This raises questions about why such traditional and outdated designs persist in modern times.
Origins Tied to Cultural Erasure
- School uniforms in the U.S. began with federal Indian boarding schools.
- They were used to suppress Native American cultural identity through militaristic, homogenizing attire.
