My dad rushed to school when the principal called about my “too short” skirt during Retro Day, a 90s plaid piece from Mom’s wardrobe. Amid my humiliation, Dad challenged the principal’s uneven dress code enforcement, noting boys’ shorts and cheerleaders’ outfits went unchecked. Calm yet firm, he defended me, and we left, his support unwavering.
At home, he posted on Facebook: “My daughter was singled out for her skirt, not disrupting anyone. Dress codes shouldn’t shame students.” The post went viral, sparking support and exposing similar injustices. A week later, we attended a school board meeting. Nervously, I spoke of my shame, advocating for fairness. They revised the dress code to be gender-neutral and apologized.
Proudly, I wear the skirt again—not in defiance, but because I like it. Dad taught me to stand up for myself. The lesson? Don’t let others shrink you for being you. Speak up, even if your voice trembles—especially then.
