by Kayleen Proffer

Created on: April 22, 2009

The fact that Goths are being voiced in this question almost as a different species of human is rather disturbing. Not giving them the choice to wear what they want would be like trying to force the entire world into a manditory uniform. It's simply unreasonable, and undeniably wrong. People have the freedom to express themselves in their clothing, it is one of the many freedoms we still have.

Asking one specific group, who are grouped simply for some of the same viewpoints on life and because they choose to wear clothes that do not fit into our definition of what is "normal", to change the way that they dress is like asking a tiger to change it's stripes. People like what they like, and their personalities determine that. Personally, I love to see the differences in people. Being identical in how we choose to dress, how we view the world, and how we feel about everything would make for one severely dull universe.

The things that give us quality as people, are the things that we bring to the world. Those things we bring to the world, add to the beauty of it. If I could ask one thing of the people who think that gothic people should be asked to change in any way, it would be this: Have you considered what it is the people you are discriminating against bring to the world? They are, as a whole, a creative and emotional group. Some of whom are amazing artists and writers.

It's hard to believe that the above is possible, but if you look at it from a different viewpoint it might be easier to understand. Most of the people whom we idolize for their achievements now, were ones that others around them thought were insane or odd. For example, Van Gogh or Einstein. These are household names now, but in their time they were thought to be off their rockers. Just consider that for a moment before deciding whether or not someone should change their dress or thoughts simply because you do not agree.

Individuality is something that is encouraged in society, but when it's taken to the extreme and that individuality goes outside the comfort zone of most people it is protested. Individuality should not be limited to what we consider normal. Individual is all about having pride in the person you are and in how you see the world, and not being afraid to express that in whatever form you choose. Whether that be through some creative venue, or simply the clothing you put on before you leave your home.

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