Dispute Over Ban on Gang Colors
As a student in the Tustin Unified School District, I realize that gang activity has been rising in our schools. However, I also realize that banning gang colors or insignia on school campuses is not going to eradicate this problem (“O.C. Schools Ponder Ban on Gang Attire,” July 16).
Gang members are not going to give up just because they are stripped of their red and blue; they will most certainly find another way to express their gang affiliation. What comes next, after hats, Raiders and Kings shirts, and red and blue shoelaces? Will banning these items turn teen-agers away from gangs? The very notion is preposterous.
A person’s attitude defines his/her clothing, and not vice versa. Banning clothing to stop gangs is not the answer; it hinders progress instead of helping. Perhaps the school board should look for the things that cause gang activity, instead of laying down code after useless code.
JASON HAMM, Anti-Dress Code Coalition of Foothill High School, Santa Ana
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