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The idea behind school uniforms is to promote a feeling of equality and unity amongst the students, an idea that sounds good in theory but in reality is not.

By having students appear identical through their attire we are not fostering equality but rather we are fostering conformity. a sentiment that says; 'if you don't look like the rest of us then you can't belong.' Prisoners wear uniforms as well and while they may appear equal, there is still a definite pecking order in play.

Now I'm not comparing students to prisoners in the strictest sense, but both groups easily identify the strongest, the weakest, the most and least influential, the most and the least popular amongst them, regardless of what they wear.

True equality won't come through conformity but rather by appearing different and having that difference accepted and encouraged.

Not having school uniforms is not akin to abandoning a dress code though. Freedom of expression is all certainly well and good, but we don't want to allow it to be exhibited to the point of distraction or offense, just as we would have in a workplace. a learning institution should be comfortable for all in attendance, which also raises the specter of school uniform policy conflicting with social or religious mores of the individual.

Some people would also say that uniforms could help children feel part of a team in a sense, a group united because they are easily identifiable to one another and none stands above the other, unless maybe the child is from a different school and doesn't wear the same uniform. Then maybe we're dealing with a different set of problems. Think about what made you feel part of a successful team. Is it the clothes you wore or is it how well the group worked together, got things accomplished, or promoted an atmosphere of inclusiveness and respect for the individual's ideas and input?

there's the argument that wearing uniforms can reduce bullying and teasing. I say maybe, but doubtful. I can recall kids being bullied or picked on in school (including myself) and rarely, if ever, do I recollect it being about the clothes they wore.

What about kid's belongings; shoes, jackets, knapsacks and the like being stolen because they carry designer labels? It may have been several years since I was in public school but then, as now, you could just as easily face that prospect away from school as in it.

Adults are (or should be) the biggest influence on a young mind and therein lies the real solution: teach your children a healthy and honest respect for themselves and others, then you shall see equality.

Learn more about this author, John Hummel.
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