MY DAD SAID ONE SENTENCE

During Spirit Week’s Retro Day, I, Reina, wore my mom’s 90s plaid skirt to school, only to be pulled from class for it being “too short.” Humiliated, I faced Principal Henley, who cited dress code policy. My dad, furious but calm, challenged her, pointing out inconsistent enforcement compared to boys’ shorts or cheerleaders’ outfits. He argued the policy unfairly targeted me. We left, and he posted about it on Facebook, sparking 12,000 shares and

widespread support. The backlash led to a school board meeting where I spoke about the shame and unfairness of subjective rules. The board revised the dress code to be gender-neutral and less focused on outdated modesty standards, issuing an apology. I felt proud—not for going viral, but for realizing I wasn’t the problem. Now, I wear my skirt confidently, knowing I can stand up for myself, thanks to my dad’s support. Speak up, even if it’s hard—it matters.