What not to wear at Morehouse

I'm sorry bro, but yes, you are tripping. Morehouse is a college. If nothing else a college should be the transition from your teenage years into adulthood. If you still need to sag your pants in college, or wear a doo rag to class, then maybe you are not ready to be there. And if you need to wear a grill, then you don't need college. Apparently, your exhibitionism proves that you have made enough money in your career to make college unnecessary. This has nothing to do with Black elitism, but everything to do with self-respect. When are we going to stop buffoning ourselves? Why in the world would you need to wear a doo-rag to a college lecture? I'm with Morehouse on this one. If you look at a lot of the private schools for young African-American males where there is a dress code, you see young, respectful, career-oriented, future leaders, not thugs.

Derek, obviously you dont understand free thought and expression!

Frank, you are understating the problem. First, I do believe it is counterproductive in 2009 to still have a BLACK or WHITE only college. Beyond ridiculous. I am also getting more convinced daily that the level of imposing conformity by university management is killing scholarship for business interest. Where in history was found ever a socially conforming intellectual - OF NOTE?

I am also convinced that with everyone with 21st century psyche trying to look the same, sound the same, feel the same, be the same - actions like PLAGIARISM at universities too will soon become COMPULSORY, especially at a stupidly led college like More-of-the-same-House.

its a shame you've gotta tell young adults, especially in college, to pull your pants up; i don't want to see your red underwear. loud talking should also be on the list, because these young punks also tend to want to draw attention to themselves. its sad you can't take common manners and basic home training for granted anymore. i commend the president of morehouse.

Whats evident here is that somehow aspects of black culture are seen as being not okay... to black people. That we all must look and act like a certain WASP culture that isn't always accepting of dark colored people in the first places. In saying things like what commenter Joell stated: "loud talking should also be on the list, because these young punks also tend to want to draw attention to themselves."... its most evident that we lack an understanding of the various types of people we come in-contact with. So what if certain black cultures talk louder than others, is that not okay? Do we all have to talk at a certain tone simple because you do? You have to place people in the context in which they operate instead of taking them and placing them in your's.

I'm glad I attended another Historical Black University. I like to be free without limitations and restrictions. I wouldn't pay that kind of money to attend Morehouse and have to comply with that policy.

Yes, Frank...you are trippin. And so are the other commenters that think this dress code is problematic. Look folks, as a prof. at an HBCU, I can tell u that black men need a LOT of help! ALOT! Since the overwhelming majority of the will leave Morehouse College and enter into the corporate (read: white) business world, the college is trying to do is prepare them for the transition. Individualism and self-expression is great..on your own time. But self-expression isn't going to help you get a job. The fact of the matter is that there are rules and expectations of attire everywhere you go. Why is it deplorable when a college implements standards of dress? I don't get it. All of you who are opposed to this policy are missing the point. Think about it...would you (or the company you work for) hire a black man wearing grills, sagging pants, carrying purses, etc.. to an interview? I think not. I say God speed Morehouse! Finally, a black college has gotten it right! I only wish my school would implement such a policy. Oh, and I'm a black man btw..

I agree with Derek! I've taught many high school and college students with sagging pants, grillz and doo rags. And I constantly preach: first impressions are forever lasting impressions. Honestly, it certainly helps their overall grade when I can witness their evolution from stereotypical thug to potential world leader. For black young men - set the standards and expectations high; we can meet and exceed the expectations.

As a Clark Atlanta alum and someone who has a sister at the very strict, dress code enforcing Hampton University, I am inclined to think this is a good thing. As another person wrote, college is supposed to be the moment when you transition from teenager to young adult. A time when you are preparing to take on the world, a world were black people, especially black men are often times seen as lazy, sloppy and unprofessional. This is the best time to practice looking and ACTING your best. I do not think these new rules are unreasonable. These kinds of rules have successfully maintained order on the prestigious Hampton and I think they will work at Morehouse too. Now if only MY beloved alma mater could get on board and enforce a dress code!

nhlanhla, Morehouse is a Historically Black College (HBCU). Morehouse and any other Historically Black institution for Higher learning are not only for one ethnicity. Thanks! Historically Black Colleges and Universities were founded many years ago due to the fact that African Americans weren’t granted admission to the traditionally white colleges and universities.

This is why so many black students are NOT enrolling at these black schools. They are stuck in the dark ages. This is the problem with these black schools - their obsession with image leaves their students with a totally screwed up mentality that they carry into their professional existence. I've worked with enough of their graduates to know this. I can't tell you how many Hampton U grads I know who left college with a mountain of credit card debt trying to keep up with the Joneses and do the whole "Hampton chic" thing. College is supposed to be an experience about finding your own way and learning lessons ... not being treated like a teenager. I can't tell you how many days I slapped on the first thing I found and went to class to get my education. It wasn't about what I wore ... and I am a successful working professional who carries himself as such. Pure silliness ... and the line about pumps and stuff was totally uncalled for. As a black gay man I thank my lucky stars I didn't go to one of these schools!

Listen, image is everything in this world. If you show up at a law firm or on Wall Street or any other high profile Fortune 500 company looking for a job, dressed like you belong in a rap video, guess what? YOU AIN'T GETTING THE JOB! College is where you go to get the education and make the connections you need to start a successful career. You can 'find yourself' on your own time. But when you go to class, you need to be in the right frame of mind to absorb what you need to learn to be successful and being properly attired is conducive to learning. I am in total agreement with Derek. Morehouse is producing young successful black men, not thugs!

I think you all are missing the point. First off, the primary goal of any institution of higher learning is to educate and prepare the students for the next phase of life as a self-sustaining adult. The goal of college is not to "find yourself." Those of you who didn't go to HBCU's need to keep quiet. Until you have experienced an HBCU you really have no idea what you are talking about. Many (not all) students at HBCU's are seriously lacking and need more structure than MOST college kids. They have no sense of reality and what is expected of them once they leave the nurturing environment of the HBCU campus. I applaud Morehouse for taking the steps to prepare their students for life in the oustide world. Oh, and to all those people talking about what they wore when they were at non-HBCU schools, I'm sure negative student images were not a pervasive problem at your institution, hence no need for a dress code. As most people know what is the norm and is expected and conform to such expectations.

Reality check ... part of becoming a "self-sustaining adult" is figuring out who that adult is - and a dress code is not going to help in that mission no matter how they spin it. Those kinds of policies speak to a bigger issue of closed-mindedness on black campuses. And while I didn't go to an HBCU I know plenty about them because my mother worked at one for years - and I saw enough foolishness during that time to know I had no desire to go to be there. Hell, SHE did not even encourage me to attend one! As much as college is about preparing for the next phase of your life it is also about figuring things out on your own, problem solving and finding self. I can respect it is an environment that may be good for some, but I just wasn't one of those people.

"Lets keep the ball rolling in that direction and not turn our backs on all those Durag-wearing, Timbs and Jeans rockin, Heels and Pumps-prone undergraduates we know you have all over your campus" you said it ALL right there! Are there times when saggy jeans are not okay? Yup. Are there places where probably not the best place to wear a hat? Yup! Are college campuses one of these places, NO! Is forcing young black men into an idea that is created for them by a larger white society (that REALLY needs to get over itself!) an empowering message, HELL NO! College is about finding out who you are. To decide for young men what they can wear and how they can where it is to stifle them and moreover, send them off into the world, that already prejudges them, and say "if you want to succeed you need to be someone you are not..." is disgusting and harmful

problem with most of you who support the college is that your stated worries are so short term!

You worry about how you will find a job in a white culture, as opposed to worrying about how you can resist image-imperialism so that your kids can be themselves in whatever world they lived. You are worried about making corporate impressions as opposed to worrying about good human values that have nothing to do with appearance. You worry about saving your own skins and willing to allow a generational disappearance of diverse culturism, in manners, clothing, talk, or worship.

I swear if you lived outside that white and english cocoon world, you'd be the type of black people or parent who would rather have their kids speak pure and proper highbrow English language (if that exists) at the expense of learning and using their mother tongues in dominant positions of power.

Actually, you are what we call coconuts where I come from, I think you call your types, Orios.

Why would anyone still think it's respectable to look like Wall Street as opposed to themselves, when that is the place of real gangsters who live off grannies' pensions? What is wrong with looking like the Daile Lama, a Nigerian traditionalist, a rock star, YOUR bloody SELF, instead of looking like a wall street clone when going to lecture hall to learn about Anthropology, for instance? Self imposed and pointless victimhood that's what I see.

Good move Moorehouse. Our black males need all of the help they can get. You're in school to learn how to be successful.

For everyone that believes a dress code "restricts individual expression" or "prevents you from finding yourself," WAKE UP! Bottom line is that a professional appearance knows no color or national boundaries (when was the last time you saw a foreign business person not dressed in a suit & tie?). I applaud Morehouse for wanting to show our young black men what professional looks like now, while in a safe school environment, instead of having them learn the hard way in the ruthless job market.

I'd hate to tell everyone this but you do NOT enroll in college to learn how to dress yourself, or to learn respect for that matter. As a dual degree holding individual, I don't recall either of those subjects as class offerings - these are things you learn as part of a LIFE EXPERIENCE!!!! Is this really what Morehouse has come to? People so clueless about what to wear in different situations, that a dress code has to be enforced? Pathetic - and an embarrassment to students at the college whose intellect is surely well beyond this infantile initiative. You go to college to educate yourself in different subjects, explore your belief systems and find things out on your own! This is actually laughable. I am a minority so don't even go there. So many comments about this seem to be based on race and preparing young black men to go out into the "white" workforce and be able to get a job from the "white" man. Well let me tell you - all these "white" men went to all sorts of universities from public institutions to Ivy League schools (Harvard, Yale, Princeton, etc.) 98% of which have NO restrictions whatsoever regarding attire. Yet - these white people are running companies, corporations, etc., so clearly a certain dress in college does NOT equal future success. College should be about what goes on in YOUR HEAD - not what you put on you BODY. Your brain is substance, your attire is surface. Sorry, But I prefer substance over style anyday! But if you feel the need to go to a school that enforces a dress code so you will know how to dress for a job interview, so be it - that is your choice.

nhlanhla, your statements are well verbalized, but not very open to any perspective other than your own. So, I will entertain the idea of enlightening you. I think the author and you may be looking too deep into this thing. It's simply about codes of conduct and etiquette. Ask any "real" successful black man in a traditional line of work and he'll tell you that rocking a grill and sagging too low has it's place. Do it at home, at the club, at the mall, etc. When you're at school, you're still at an institution where you are training for leadership. If I allow you to think that it's okay to do some things in certain settings, I have failed you. Because the truth of the matter is that you will more than likely enter into a world where there are codes of conduct. I get dudes coming into my office all the time asking for a job with saggy pants and doo- rags. I tell them to get the hell on because this is a place of business, not your freedom land. Morehouse is simply trying to set an example for other young men to follow. Let's be real about this thing. The things on that list were pure nonsense and you know it. Buy your own son a grill, let him wear his doo rag in church, pajamas to school with a purse and then we'll see how proud you are that he's being his pure "bloody self"...man please.

I personally like the policy. There is a time and place for everything, i think the said fact is that you have to have a policy for people to understand that.

Thank you Ostend and Cal Soldier..I couldn't agree more. @ ME -- You continue to miss the point. Regardless of whether or not white america needs to "get over itself" the fact of the matter is that they set the rules of engagement. You can choose whether to play or not. Allowing these young black men to think that coming out the house looking like you're on your way to a rap video shoot or to a circus is not in their best interest. What don't you understand? Do you dress like that at work? and if don't, why not? I'm curious. @ nhlanhla- your argument is totally baseless. You can still resist "image- imperialism" and all that ying yang ON YOUR OWN TIME. Do you resist this imperialism at your place of employment? I'd wager that you don't..b/c you know you'd be fired. So please come up off it. And that "uncle tom" "coconut" "oreo" argument is so played out, its ridiculous. This has nothing to do with wanting to be white and everything to do with optimizing your chances for success. Get real!

The piece that troubles me the most is the 'no heels, pumps, purses etc.' as a man and a student @ Howard University who doesn't fit 'the mold' when it comes to gender expression. Some of the rules are appropriate and some are INDEED homophobic, heterosexist, classist, and elitist. As a young black man who is surrounded by young black men DAILY who are doing their thing on this historic campus I am deeply offended by all these comments about how 'black men need all the help they can get' like we're some lost cause or better yet a terminal disease. I am surrounded daily, by many young black men who wear their pants low, wear grills, have cornrows, locks and other hairstyles that may seem 'inappropriate' but also know how to tie a tie and put on a three-piece suit with the best of them. I know many black gay men, and am a black gay man, who is just as comfortable in a pair of stilletos as I am in a pair of Brooks Brothers penny loafers and I am smart, intelligent, well-read, and have a lot to offer but you (those who support this dress code) will never get to see that cause you're too busy trying to make me fit into your box. Where will the line be drawn? Will men be told they can't wear dreadlocks or cornrows and that their hair can only be but so long? Will Spellman start telling women that they can't wear pants and that their hair can only be so short? C'MON!

I agree with the comments noting support for the idea that young Black men should pull up their pants and their image projected not only to fellow Blacks, but to all. Unless you graduate from college and become one of the music artists who project the fake image of thuggery to the world to sell music, or own your own business, you will be shut out of the job market if you continue to dress like you are 15-years-old. The white business culture has devised a number of methods to screen, especially, Black males out of the job market. They include your skin color obviously, the way you wear your hair, the school you attended, your GPA, the name your parents gave you and of course the image you project with your clothes. Many Black colleges, peers and parents should help young Black men and women develop positive images which project who you are as a Black person before you leave home or campus. Even if you are not looking for work in professional setting, they use the same "screens" to exclude Black men who apply for work at McDonalds. It is enough that Black men are killing each other with guns. Lets not kill our futures with sagging pants and mama rags wrapped around our heads.

lilern, I agree with you that it's sad when your child has made it all the way to college and still has to be taught how to dress. I also agree that abiding by a dress code, does not equal future success. However, we all have to agree that appearance dictates perception. That's why style exists. So if you want me to take you seriously, it helps if you at least look like you take yourself seriously. Some of those things should probably be taught at home

Reality check ... I am well aware of the "rules of engagement" ... in fact, I am more aware of them than most of my friends who went to black schools. Yes, you are teaching these kids how to "dress the part" but most of them are coming into these work environments with chips on their shoulders and a militant stance that is off-putting to white folks. I've seen people fired over it. (Since we are now on what folks need to know about "the real world.") Corporate success is MUCH bigger than "looking the part.' I learned the rules of engagement by engaging in four years of dealing with crazy white folks, and filtering the BS I went through through my own experience and value systems and learning how to apply it in real life. That was PRICELESS experience. None of this involved a silly dress code. Our black community on campus was small and tight knit and there was nobody who needed to be told the proper way to dress when venturing out into professional situations (even the ones who wore the dreaded clothing items barred in this code). They had enough sense to know that there is a time and place for everything ... and the few who didn't learned quick, fast and in hurry how things work - through EXPERIENCE. If "Morehouse men" don't know the basics about professional attire and need that kind of structure then they need to pick better students. Sorry. The bottom line is this policy is elitist and homophobic, like most black schools. Like I said, I'm glad I never went to one. At the end of the day real world is not all black and isn't going to tell you the way to do things. Life is about figuring things out.

@ME - You keep underscoring points I made in previous post. But to your most recent post, allow me to point some things out. 1. It sounds as though you went to a majority white school with a "small and tight-knit" black community...so, by your own admission, there was no dress code on your campus because there was NOT a pervasive problem of inappropriate dress. Whats hard to understand about that? Apparently this is a pervasive problem at Morehouse or the administration wouldn't have felt the need to institute a dress code. And if anything, you are the one being elitist by your constant need to point out that you didn't go to a black college because they are beneath you. Okay, we get it!

Here is the root of the matter: these policies promote a problematic hegemony that still to this day plague the Black community and the black males within more so; appear (because that is what this biased policy is about) to be an upstanding man and support a don’t-ask-don’t-tell (hide any sense of personality, trade it in for a suit coat and tie) policy and you magically become an upstanding citizen and productive black male within the community. Who cares about what is actually going on inside the minds of the black males; let’s only concern ourselves with their outward appearance. It is not the right of a privileged majority to impose beliefs that are based in biased on a nonconforming group solely based on prejudices. Throughout the 2008-2009/2009-20010 school years, I have constantly heard the crys of the privilege majority at Morehouse College (the conforming heterosexual normative) that the homosexual population is destroying the image of the college by wearing women's garments. Without statistics, I can say the a majority of those whose cry of wolf I heard, maintained below outstanding grade point averages and I dare say will ever actually complete matriculation at Morehouse College. Wake up! It is the content of a one's character that we should be judging here, not the contents of one's closet. This is merely a ploy of the current administration to recloset the homosexual population at Morehouse that have found themselves to be liberated enough to not be subjected to the tyranny of a majority. Robert Franklin, you sadly disappoint me. You might as well cry “weapons of mass destruction” to rally up a bandwagon of folks to support your underhanded schemes. If a student is to be denied access to the classroom (be it at privately funded Morehouse College) based solely on their outward appearance, then we as a black community have become the evil force that we so outwardly fought during the Civil Rights movement, when blacks were denied access to white only privately owned counters, movie theatres and, private white only institutions of higher learning. It is a sad day when a race of people that openly fought against the injustices that were imposed on them solely based on skin tone, have turned into the machine of oppression that they once cried out against. If the administration and Morehouse College herself, a supposed safe-haven for the educating and mentoring of young black men can pompously impose such a policy, then we should be in full support of privately funded Ivy League schools denying access to black students and the rest of mainstream America resubjecting us to the Jim Crow laws of the mid-1900s. The current administration at Morehouse would have you believe that “great minds think alike” and that this policy is in the best interest of her students. I dare to counter that doctrine and say that “great minds think for themselves” and that this policy is detrimental to the individual development that makes the higher learning process worthwhile. College is not for learning to put on a suit-and-tie combination and bow your heads to what is subjugated to you by the tyranny of a majority. Oh No! It is just the opposite. It is for leaning to hold your head high with pride at for the individual that your maker created because you were created to be unique purposefully. To quote Marianne Williamson, “Your playing small does not serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.”

Here is the root of the matter: these policies promote a problematic hegemony that still to this day plague the Black community and the black males within more so; appear (because that is what this biased policy is about) to be an upstanding man and support a don't-ask-don't-tell (hide any sense of personality, trade it in for a suit coat and tie) policy and you magically become an upstanding citizen and productive black male within the community. Who cares about what is actually going on inside the minds of the black males; let's only concern ourselves with their outward appearance.
It is not the right of a privileged majority to impose beliefs that are based in biased on a nonconforming group solely based on prejudices. Throughout the 2008-2009/2009-20010 school years, I have constantly heard the crys of the privilege majority at Morehouse College )the conforming heterosexual normative) that the homosexual population is destroying the image of the college by wearing women's garments. Without statistics, I can say the a majority of those whose cry of wolf I heard, maintained below outstanding grade point averages and I dare say will ever actually complete matriculation at Morehouse College.
Wake up! It is the content of a one's character that we should be judging here, not the contents of one's closet. This is merely a ploy of the current administration to recloset the homosexual population at Morehouse that have found themselves to be liberated enough to not be subjected to the tyranny of a majority. Robert Franklin, you sadly disappoint me. You might as well cry "weapons of mass destruction" to rally up a bandwagon of folks to support your underhanded schemes.
If a student is to be denied access to the classroom (be it at privately funded Morehouse College) based solely on their outward appearance, then we as a black community have become the evil force that we so outwardly fought during the Civil Rights movement, when blacks were denied access to white only privately owned counters, movie theatres and, private white only institutions of higher learning.
It is a sad day when a race of people that openly fought against the injustices that were imposed on them solely based on skin tone, have turned into the machine of oppression that they once cried out against. If the administration and Morehouse College herself, a supposed safe-haven for the educating and mentoring of young black men can pompously impose such a policy, then we should be in full support of privately funded Ivy League schools denying access to black students and the rest of mainstream America resubjecting us to the Jim Crow laws of the mid-1900s.
The current administration at Morehouse would have you believe that "great minds think alike" and that this policy is in the best interest of her students. I dare to counter that doctrine and say that "great minds think for themselves" and that this policy is detrimental to the individual development that makes the higher learning process worthwhile. College is not for learning to put on a suit-and-tie combination and bow your heads to what is subjugated to you by the tyranny of a majority. Oh No! It is just the opposite. It is for leaning to hold your head high with pride at for the individual that your maker created because you were created to be unique purposefully.
To quote Marianne Williamson, "Your playing small does not serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you."

Ahh, and how I remember the outrage from posters about the young Morehouse brotha who took issue with gay men who chose to dress in women's attire on Morehouse's campus. Now you got your wishes. No more expressions of freedoms for gays.

To this other point, contrary to all of these out of sync opinions, college is a place for many things, most obvious of those is that it you go to receive an education. However, the notion that college serves only ONE purpose represents the most flawed and irresponsible of logics.

If you don't "find yourself" in college, at what point does that occur, high school or post college life? Colleges are chosen not just for the quality of education but also campus life as well. That includes reasonable freedoms of expression not enjoyed at other institutions such as Oral Roberts and like-minded ones.

Many "middle class" students from across the country often bring the cultures of their hometowns to college. That happens to include grills, sagging pants, manbags etc. I know I balked at seeing native New Yorkers wear oversized EVERYTHING in college but I shudder to think that my school would ban it just because it doesn't look good. If any person graduates from any college not knowing what to wear during an interview, then said college and individual are equally culpable in that.

If these same people of interest are currently employed while in school, what are the odds that they went to the interview wearing doo-rags, sagging pants, and thigh high boots? Slim to none. Yet, Morehouse needed this policy?

Yeah right and Jay from Next Model is a dime piece.

The real question is what is an NYU grad doing hanging around an all male undergrad campus. Atlanta's full of coffee shops homie...why that one? Dude probably wears Morehouse nalia on the low too. Sad man. Plain sad. Also, Morehouse is a private institution so who cares what the rules are. The school graduates more black males than any other institution in the world...if their elitist, it's nothing new.

@Whymustwe...."So what if certain black cultures talk louder than others, is that not okay?" NO, its NOT ok if you're using vile & vulgar language in a restaurant or mall in the presence of kids, grandparents, etc. And it not just these young punks displaying this ignorance and buffoonery. I was recently in a check out line at a grocery store, with a variety of people in several lines: moms with kids, senior citizens , etc. A mid 20's black female's phone rings and her ring tone is "shake that ass." Its time to stop making excuses for this kind of behavior.

THANK YOU Sammie lening, lilern, and Midwestguy. CLEARLY the only voices of reason. This has NOTHING to do with understanding what to wear in an interview. Morehouse students are WELL AWARE of what a suit and tie is. The deeper issue here is this belief that what you wear somehow overrides what comes out of your mouth. Many of the responses are basically saying "this is a white world and you better get with it" which is so disheartening. Did the civil rights movement not happen? Did people of color NOT get discriminated against based on their outward appearance? Black people need to WAKE UP and realize its is okay to be black! Your culture of sagging pants and gold teeth is just that: YOUR CULTURE. Embrace it. Effeminate Homosexuals who wear purses are brave enough to be themselves in public. If it wasn't for openly gay individuals fighting against the heterosexist public, many of you wouldn't even think of taking your boyfriend to a movie or moving into a one bedroom apartment together. Conforming to a WASP standard goes to show the majority has done a great job in making us reject ourselves as a minority. This is clearly an elitist/homophoic policy and it should be regarded as such. Wearing a suit isn't going to make pass your classes or keep you from getting discriminated against or make life any easier for African Americans or make you feel any better about yourself. Being comfortable within yourself regardless REGARDLESS of what you have on will though.

@ joell Excuses? Perhaps she should consult yourself and maybe a couple other people when decided which ringtone she will use for HER PHONE. The phone she probably purchased with HER MONEY. If you have a problem with it, perhaps you should have told her exactly how you felt about her ringtone and waited for her response. Chances are it wouldn't have been pleasant. If people choose to express themselves in that or any way they see fit... so long as it doesn't cause harm to themselves and harm others... is totally up to them. Whether or not you feel its "ignorance" and "buffoonery" is entirely subjective. She operates in her own context just like everyone else. If ringtones that say "shake that ass" offend you, then by all means do not use it as YOUR ringtone.

I have to admit, the dress code is hilarious. Especially that part prohibiting women's clothes. But I don't have a problem with Morehouse wanting to educate its student body as to what is proper and what is not appropriate attire. That's what colleges are supposed to do, educate. The sad thing is that they even have to tell people that it is inappropriate to wear pajamas to class, or that they would look ridiculous wearing grillz to a job interview (or anywhere!) As for women's clothes, I'm sorry if it offends anyone but men should NOT wear women's clothes. It just looks ridiculous and if that hurts someone's itty bitty feelings well, I guess they shouldn't go to Morehouse.

@we can agree to disagree. the bottom line is if you don't like Morehouse's dress codes, go some where else . when you finish college and enter the real world, you'll quickly find out "this is a white world and you better get with it." I finished from a predominately white college 25 yrs ago & my views were very similar to yours. consequently, it took me a helluva long time to find a good job. others i knew were moving up & i was spinning wheels. i finally had to admit i needed the man more than he needed me,so i made some consessions. Morehouse dress codes will seem trival to what you'll have to deal with in this current economic environment. Best wishes.

I can't believe all the people who have responded that Morehouse needs the dress code because young men are entering adulthood and "need to learn." I swear, black people just love paternalism. Maybe it's a remnant of slavery. What would we do if we didn't have some outside authority figure (school administrator, pastor, etc.) treating us like children. You really think it's necessary for young men to follow a dress code because they need "practice" for the workplace. Any idiot knows by age 10 that while you can get away with sloppy or "expressive" dress at certain times, there are other times when it's inappropriate. When I was in college, students would often dress nicely, but there were also days when students would show up to class in flip flops and tank tops, pajama bottoms and a sweatshirt, baggy jeans and baseball caps, earrings on guys, nose rings on guys and girls, visible tatoos. There was no dress code. And, guess what, when it was time to go to a Dean's luncheon or on-campus interviews, or school-sponsored lecture series, everyone cleaned up real good and fast. Those who held office jobs during the school year and/or the summer could (surprise!) actually go from sloppy to professional in minutes, without anyone telling them they needed to. If the Morehouse boys can't figure this out without having a strict dress code, then they're not cut out for the work world to begin with. Morehouse wants to be something it isn't. Imposing a strict dress code on top of a student body that doesn't want to dress that way isn't going to do much. So Morehouse wants to get back to it's place as generator of black leaders? Well, doesn't that reputation largely (though certainly not completely) come from an era when HBCUs were the only game in town for a lot of black men? Morehouse can't even graduate more than 60 percent of its student body in six years or less. And, no I don't think it's the worst thing in the the world to institute a dress policy. But, here it just seems desperate and trying to make cosmetic changes when more substantive changes are needed (how about increasing that endowment, how about keeping students in school and having them graduate on time?).

Thanks MorehouseGrad. I see the sad reality of what our young people and their adult counterparts don't know every day when looking for a job. Most are quite taken aback when you tell them the world of work will not accept the street dress, the latest fads, and the attitudes. Large numbers fail interviews because because these young people fail to realize that first impressions go a long way. Sometimes the minute you hit the door a decision is made. An employer calling back to your cell phone number to call you in for an interview doesn't want to hear the latest R &B, Rap Tune, Country & Western Song or songs with your religious affiliations. Yes, many adults and young people think this is o.k. and yes some are in college. Morehouse made a good decision and as one commenter said if you don't like it go somewhere else.

If I attended Morehouse and I wanted to carry a purse around Campus....i would and if they tried to stop me ....I would sue the hell out of Morehouse. Honestly, I understand some of this policy but I really think they went to far. I wouldn't send a dog to Morehouse....Howard University is where it's at....;-)...basically, Morehouse is saying they don't want homosexual students when it comes to # 9.

DIVISIVE HISTORY Morehouse has had a controversial past with gay issues, most significantly in 2002 when student Aaron Price attacked fellow student Gregory Love with a baseball bat in a dorm shower because he allegedly thought Love was gay and looking at him inappropriately. Last year, however, Soulforce, a religious-based gay organization, visited the campus of Morehouse to dialogue with students about gay issues. And Brewer, along with the university’s Safe Space program, introduced last year the “No More ‘No Homo’ Initiative,” a weeklong campaign to eradicate one of the most commonly used epithets gay students at Morehouse face. “Morehouse has a legacy of growth on these issues,” Brewer said.

To imply that Black college students need a dress code in order to know how to dress for a job interview is asinine. If black students are as stupid as some of you assume, they would never have made it as far as college. I went to school and worked at a university were the majority of the students were White. Students go to class with nose rings, spiked purple hair, sandals without socks, and jeans with mud on them. Should Black students be held to a higher standard than White students? If you think so, you are a hypocrite. I held a professional position at this university. The division I worked in was mostly White and had no dress code. Employees were only expected to come to work clean. We still knew how to represent our university at business meetings with outside companies. One time, a new division head tried to implement a dress code policy for us. All of my coworkers revolted, forcing the new division head to rescind his policy. There is a common joke among coworkers in a causal dress code work environment. Are you coming from or going to a job interview is the first question asked a coworker seen at work in a suit. When it comes to something as serious as a job interview, college students are not stupid, White or Black. College is an environment to promote individualism in student, not stifle them. Sometimes that individualism rubs off on the employees on campus.

Actually, I find it refreshing. Some of you mention clothing and individualism. I think pulling up your pants will help in that endeavor, since all baggy wearing males look basically the same. The baggy pants, oversize shirts, and baseball caps fail to look like a fashion statement, but more, a uniform. Just like the rap groups look like clones of each other. If they don't put their faces up in the camera, it's hard to tell which group is which. Call me a 'throw-back' if you like, but as a woman and an educator, wearing hats and sunglasses indoors to me has always been inappropriate. It's that Black Male Cool Syndrome, thing, that continues to perpetuate false self-expression. Another sign of the breakdown of decorum among us and in our society. So...Bravo to Morehouse. About #9, are they saying guys are dressing in drag!!! :)

Being stupid is one thing. Not knowing any better is another. Many students don't know any better and I am speaking from experience. I work in an HR environment at a large Agency and many students black or white fail that first impression because they don't know how to dress for an interview. The ignorance is in making the assumption that they know. Unfortunately, many of our schools are failing students when preparing them for the world of work. If you happen to know better good for you so nobody is really talking to you or about you.

GC: I understand what you are saying. But, why can White students express individualism in what they wear, some of which I mentioned in my above post, but Black students get criticize? Is not this a double standard? I have been in a university community for 42 years. So, I know what I hear and see every day. Black students know how to prepare for a job interview, unless they are purposely rebelling against the establishment.

Remember Morehouse College is an "old money". They come from upper crust family.. I still agree with dress strict rules. How can you get a real job with college degree? They look you as person. You have to dress up every day.. I am so sick and tired of dress down like thugs.. It is a way out ghetto style.. If you wear that clothes (ghetto) and will NEVER land a real good job with government, private companies, etc.. Did you know that Black men is hard to find a real job?? that why many Black women graduated with honors and easy to get a very good jobs.. Go somewhere and hire stylist to help you dress better.

@MLee-- your double standard argument doesn't fly. What is wrong with holding black students to a higher standard than white students (as you pointed out?) The fact of the matter is that , yes, there is a double standard. The same double standard they will undoubtedly face in the work world so why not prepare them while they are in college. See, black men of past generations understood the importance of image and that you had to work twice as hard as the next man to obtain success. Morehouse is doing a great service to those men by preparing them for the realities of life outside of campus.

morehousegrad and friends: i dont wonder why you feel i'd not be open to your different views. they are not persuasive

til now, all who support this college are doing so for immediate and commercial job market gains. that's too much pity for me to entertain. but i do encourage you to stop being the job market BOX... as i would encourage any student enrolled for scholarship at a proper university - and not a black satellite military campus, like this moron-house college. i say it again let students dress up like priests, financial brokers, rock stars or jocks, for drama, history, economics, psychology or geology learning.

unless of course, and lord behold, this is actually a front aimed at curbing the prevalence and spread of homo and other deviant sexual identities and behaviours on a purely manly young black campus life. well, then of course, there, is a real topic and issue, as so far it has all seemed only mindless at the least.

and if any of you conformists ever ever ever complain that Obama is caving in to white power and control at the expense of forgotten black life, i will chuckle. because that's actually who YOU are.

I think Morehouse is trying to promote STANDARDS. What's wrong with dressing NEAT! I have a 15 year old son and I make sure he has a haircut EVERY week, clothes iron and clean because people judge you on your appearance. When we left the black private school and attended the white private school it was easy for us to keep the uniformed dress code. The black private school made sure these kids followed the uniformed dress code. In the private school I knew his WHITE teachers checked out the black kids harder. I made sure he had a hair cut and his clothes were pressed. I knew the white kids were not held to this standard. Those kids wouldn't even wear socks to school, male or female. Some tried to wear any type shoe until they mandated a shoe policy (which was just common sense). If my son was talked about they sure couldn't say his head was nappy and his clothes were wrinkled. I was told by a surrogate mom years ago when he was very young to dress him up for church. He has always worn a tie to church. A few times I bought him a suit but after he out grew one it may have been a minute before he got another one but he always wore a tie. He may have worn a tie, shirt and khakis, but I made sure he had on a tie. Today that's a normal part of his Sunday attaire. Giving reverence to God. I personally try to look nice whenever I step out... I never know who is checking me out male/female. I might meet Mr. Right...and then the chicks you know they like to HATE.

I am a Morehouse Alumni from the mid 90's. Even then you could not sag, or wear any hats or caps inside at all. Upon entering the Caff, if we walked in with our Malcolm X caps we were told to remove them and guess what... The sky didn't fall and the world kept on spinning. Grillz weren't even out back then and we knew better than to come to class in a rag or PJ's. So none of this is anything new. Morehouse and Spellman have been branded the "Ivy League of the South" And that's been the case for many decades. Having said that, there is not one Ivy League college or university in the U.S. that does not have a dress code. A quick Google search will confirm this. It is expected that students dress in dark jeans and a shirt or sweater at minimum for all classes and functions. Which is exactly what Morehouse is expecting. And for those that don't know, our President is also from and Ivy League school and he's stated many times exactly that the Morehouse dress code rules are stating. I have yet to read anything that says students can't dress how they want to during their own time. Even 7-11 states "No shirt, no shoes, no service" so if it's good enough for a convenience store... I've also noticed that there seems to be more objection to the gender specific rule listed above than any other. To which I say this... That is the social norm in the real world, period. Between 8 to 5 you are expected to look and behave in a manner that represents the company. After 5 you can do whatever you want. Morehouse states that while on campus you will abide by those same rules that apply in the real world. People want to go to Lenox in drag, grillz, sagging or what have you, then that is their prerogative. But that is no different than in the real world and that is a fact of life not just for Black men or gay men but for whites, latinos, asians, and any other race, creed or gender that is out there. Higher education's job is to to prepare you for the real world and to teach you how to think for yourself. Thinking for yourself includes knowing that there is a time and a place for everything. For whatever reason the students there aren't getting that. So here comes the rules and regulations to enforce that. Also it is well known that as a Black man or woman, you have to work twice as hard as the next person to be able to prove your qualities. Like it or not that is the way it is and the only way that can be changed is from the inside out. You get in, play the game, do what you gotta do, then make the change from within. Can't do it from the outside in. People in business, no matter the color, don't care about your individualism, your finding yourself or what have you. What they want to know is what can you do for them to help make them money. And if you don't look like someone that can make them money, then don't ask why you weren't hired. Perception is reality.

Sadly, so many of our young people have lost their way. Thus, the Morehouse administration is providing guidance. I say, YAY!! I am affiliated with a public HBCU and I have often said recently that WE need a dress code, for the males AND females. But since we are public, I don't know if we could get away with it. Pity...

Well said TDSmoove -- well said!!!

saying the same thing a million times over does not make it true. but you can get crazy.

Does the Morehouse dress code mean that any black male on campus who doesn't meet the "code" will be asked to leave campus...talk about profiling. The reason I wanted to attend college was that my friends and I would shoot hoops at UCLA and USC while in high school and attend football and basketball games at both schools. We became regulars and some Black students and faculty asked if we wanted to take a campus tour. I guess Black kids from the 'hood are persona non grata at Morehouse. I assume this applies to white males too. Steve Jobs, whose trademark outfit is jeans better not stop off at Morehouse to make a donation or to recruit students; he'll be asked to leave. Morehouse, Hampton and these other dress code schools could afford to maintain these dress code if they had a multibillion dollar endowment and a long waiting list of students willing to pay full tuition but black colleges are hurting and bright Black students are choosing Harvard, Stanford and Georgia Tech over HBCUs. Harvard and Cal Tech, the most elite schools in the country, don't care how students dress because its all about the bottom line. If you're bright enough to get into one of these schools, you'll soon take classes about an organization's culture and students will learn you dress according to the prevailing rules of the organization. If you're an engineer at Bechtel, you better wear a tie every day; if you have the same job at google they might think you're a corporate spy if you don't wear jeans and a tshirt. College should be about getting in, learning something, having a little fun and getting out on time, not engaging in a fashion show.

@harryo....."bright Black students are choosing Harvard, Stanford and Georgia Tech over HBCUs. Harvard and Cal Tech, the most elite schools in the country, don't care how students dress." Morehouse is very good college, but the fact is the vast majority of Morehouse students would be very unlikely to be accepted at Harvard, Stanford, Ga Tech, Cal Tech ; for the last three, an SAT score approaching 700 would be needed on the math & verbal sections, TO EVEN BE CONSIDERED; its even higher at harvard. One percent of Morehouse students reach this threshold. So for most prospective Morehouse students, turned off by its dress codes, the alternatives listed above are not viable options.

I don't have the erudiction of you all. But I'll say this is an attempt to ban gay students via the back door(no pun intended). The proposed ban on grills and hoodies is just a smokescreen. M/H realised an open ban on gay students will cause a huge outcry, so they decided to opt for a camouflage. Do they really think someone will rock-up for a job interview at Merryl Linch spotting grillz, drag apparel, etc. Come on people. I live in a village in Africa and yet even I know how to dress to suit the occasion. Have a lovely day yo'all.

I would like to see the stats of students who have graduated or will be graduating from MOREHOUSE (of all places) who do not know how to properly dress for corporate america. If you think about all the false arguments being raised by many on this board, Morehouse students MUST fail in this area!

Implementing a dress code appropriate for attending university functions is understandable. Implementing one because you don't "like" to see grills, men in women's clothing, and baggy pants is a nanny a university as you can get. Unless I am completely wrong, Morehouse does not have the open door policy found in many HBCU's. To me that means that you have to have certain "elements" working in your favor, academics and money being at the top.

From the sound of this shock and horror talk, Morehouse must troll the local jails looking for ignorant black male who then in turn fail the University. This must be the case. That or misplaced priorities and bigotry. The latter is more likely.

One of the posters mentioned that her son went to a public school requiring kids to wear uniforms. I am also against public schools requiring their students to dress alike. Here are 2 reasons why, besides suppressing individualism. Besides asking for donations for school supplies at the beginning of this school year, a homeless shelter for women and children in my area had to beg for donations to buy school uniforms for the children to start public school on time in a school district having a strict dress code policy. The kids in the shelter already had everyday clothes to wear. In high school, one of my classmates had everyday clothes to wear. His parents could not afford to buy him uniforms required for gym class every day. Every wash day, I would bring 2 sets of my gym clothes back to school, one set for him. We wore the same sizes of gym clothes and shoes. No one ever knew what we were doing. A reasonable dress code is understandable, but not a one fit all dress code. I do not care what private schools do. I always believed in supporting public schools. If you are not satisfied with the education in public school, do something about it instead of running away to private or charter schools. Standard tests have proved that the education received in many private and charter schools are no better or even worst than public schools. It is just a perception that all private and charter schools are better.

Wonderful dress code policy that has been implemented at Morehouse. I don't see anything wrong with any of those rules listed.

I am an altanta native, and a senior college student. I second the statement that college is a place students should feel safe to find themselves in every way including attire. I am very dissapointed in Morehouse's disrespect for personal choice as it pertains to dress. Atlanta contains such a diverse population, and that diversity should be embraced. There is an exception for religious garb. Why isn't there one for people that choose to dress in a way that displays their sexuality. Is a person's sexuality less important than their faith to Morehouse? It shouldn't be in a State institution. This is a problem. Morehouse really needs to rid itself of this policy.

Ok one more thing, I dress in all types of things when I'm going to class including pajama pants, flip flops and hats. However, I wear heels, dress pants and nice shirts to interviews. Its possible for one to do both. Ok two more things, If I knew I had to think harder about what to wear before going to class, I would be less likely to attend. Perhaps thats just me.

All I know is, if there was this type of forced gender normativity at the all-women's college I attended, I never would have been able to finish my undergraduate degree or go on to get my PhD. If a guy has a hard time getting a job in heels, that is an indication that this society continues to fail all of by hiring on a set of class, race, and gender based qualifications rather than merit. In my mind, this policy is nothing more than a barrier to education for those who need it most. I am appalled that this continues to happen in the 21st century.

sorry, that should read "continues to fail all of *us* by hiring..."

I feel like I just stepped out of the TWILIGHT ZONE...college students wear PJs to class! Older people call it "sleeping ready to roll". When my son was a baby I would sometimes dress him in his clothes for bed so that I wouldn't have to dress him in the mornings because I had to be at work early (Single Mom). I'm fixing to play mama... come on now your parents taught you better and YOU know they would not find that acceptable. I generally don't comment to this extent on gay issues BUT regardless to who you are you should always want to dress appropriate. If you are a gay guy and you are taking a purse to class---you SHOULDN'T. If you were working you wouldn't take a purse to work. Treat school like it's your job... I know you may not like it but there are a lot of things we do not like but we have to obey. Besides it isn't even worth sweating... there are too many BIGGER battles to fight!

I am in complete support of the dress code. As a Spelman alumna and a Human Resources professional who recruits recent grads regularly, I can't over-emphasize the importance of using college as a time to prepare for adulthood and careers. I always believed that undergrads should treat college like it's their job. Be punctual. Be professional. Have integrity. Respect the opportunity. We need to raise the bar and the expectations we have for black men. When that happens, maybe more of them will reach for it. I'll admit, #9 is a little tricky. I don't believe in heterosexist mandates and a student who identifies with the LGBT community should not have to suppress one's identity to obtain education. However, this is a private institution that doesn't have to operate under all the same expectations of a federally funded public school. I'm still not sure exactly what my opinion is about this one . . . so I just won't comment full yet.

I think that most people are missing the point that this dress code is only when you are on campus. When you are on campus, you are going to class and should dress appropriately. What is wrong with saying that you cannot wear pajama pants and do-rags to your 1:00 English Seminar? Also you will find that most places have a dress code. When you enter a resturant, it says no hats allowed. When you enter a store, it says no shoes and shirts required. And I'm pretty sure that when you were in high school, there were dress codes imposed as well. Again, most places have dress codes, but most places are pretty lax about it. Who even knows how strict Morehouse will be in enforcing such a code. I doubt they are going to employ people to walk around campus to look for offenders. I think this is a way to deter the small popluation that do not dress properly. Most of you have never been on Morehouse's campus, and if you have you would know that most students dress properly anyway. They are not saying you have to come to class with a suit and tie; they are just saying we would rather see you in non-sagging jeans and a sweatshirt. I think people are making this bigger than what it is because most college campuses have some type of dress code (please do a quick google search) but because it is Morehouse people are up in arms about it.

Frank Leon Roberts, is totally missing the point. To be on the outside looking in does not provide you with an accurate view. Internally, students, faculty and staff talked about possible solutions for a couple of months. Finally, we have a solution that most students agree upon. Very very few students disagree that the dress code is not needed. Drawing upon Morehouse's rich history and legacy, the attire of a Morehouse Man has always been an important factor. We are NOT New York University, Princeton University, Clark Atlanta University, or Johnson C Smith. We are simply Morehouse College and we take pride in our brand. President Franklin is a leader not a dictator. Alumni, current students and parents have brought to his attention over the last two years the issue of how students dress on campus. As a leader, he acted in the best interest of all and presented what was good for all. As a private institution, Morehouse reserve the right to set any policy in motion that will work for the good of the college. Leaders, humanitarians, celebrities and other benefactors invest in Morehouse because of its mission to produce leaders who are well-dressed and well-spoken. The policy does not state that one has to be the best dressed but that the man of Morehouse is dressed for the occasion.

As a college what is this Morehouse known for, besides a gay eliminating dress code mess-up?

I dont even see it in the Top 1000 of world leading universities. Instead of playing busy with dress, morehouse management must contribute to excellent teaching and research. A problem with some of us: is that we just love looking the part as opposed to acting it.

By the way, I saw several statements from Howard students or people asscoiated with Howard. When the world begins to pay close attention to Howard men the way they pay attention to Morehouse Men, then you might get a clue about why the dress code is necessary. In addition, I have seen several people compare their schools to Morehouse. Last time I checked, Morehouse was a four year liberal arts institution dedicated to the development of the African American male. Is that the primary mission of your school? There has been none before us and none after us. Leaving Morehouse with the distinction of being the only all male institution for African American men in the nation. Therefore, this leaves men of Morehouse and Morehouse Men with a unique and rare experience that those who do not attend will never ever feel and be a part of. Men of Morehouse are very diverse with their dress. There are some things that the brothers wear around campus that I will never wear and vice versa. However, there is a line to be drawn when there is a 6'3 brother walking across campus with a purse or pumps. The mission of the college is defeated when a young man identifies mainly with female influences. Morehouse is about MANHOOD development, which does not translate into Morehouse being anti-gay or homophobic. Its not about whether you or gay or straight. Its about whether one can become a strong leader for his community and apply the principles of manhood to his life. Wearing heels to imitate a woman or sagging your pants because you want to embrace the Thug life will not bring aid to the communities that await someone to set the tone and be the model for change. Lastly, when those of you who are not associated with Morehouse in anyway(e.g. alumnus, donor, etc..) begin to send checks to Morehouse, then your word may count but until then fall back and respect our dress code.

Ever heard of Martin Luther King, Jr.? Howard Thurman? Dr. Mordecai Wyatt Johnson and James Nabrit (two Morehouse Men who mad Howard University what it is today)? Shelton Spike Lee? Samuel L. Jackson? Nima Warfield (Rhodes Scholar)? Maynard Jackson? The list goes on and on and on. I am starting to believe some of the comments arise out of jealousy and desire to want to be a part of something great, such as, Morehouse. The "wanna bes" who wanted Morehouse but chose Harvard because they pay the minority to fill their quotas or the white state universities because they have cheaper tutition.

Ever heard of Martin Luther King, Jr.? Howard Thurman? Dr. Mordecai Wyatt Johnson and James Nabrit (two Morehouse Men who mad Howard University what it is today)? Shelton Spike Lee? Samuel L. Jackson? Nima Warfield (Rhodes Scholar)? Maynard Jackson? The list goes on and on and on. I am starting to believe some of the comments arise out of jealousy and desire to want to be a part of something great, such as, Morehouse. The "wanna bes" who wanted Morehouse but chose Harvard because they pay the minority to fill their quotas or the white state universities because they have cheaper tutition.

Are you serious, Frank?!? Let me FIRST say, I FULLY support this policy! This is only about ensuring that our young men carry themselves in a respectable, honorable fashion..from dress, to speech, etc. Too many of our young black men are portrayed in everyday media as gold teeth having, inarticulate, pants sagging, ass showing, street corner THUGS. I am TIRED of that image. That image does NOT define what all our black men are about. And whether you want to admit it or not, this image breeds a certain perception and carries with it a certain mentality. Fortunately, Morehouse does not endorse this mentality and has reignited its committment to change today's perception of young black men as lazy, unintelligent, womanizing thugs. Colleges are meant to prepare young minds for the future by 1st teaching them how to operate successfully in TODAY's reality. And in the world we currently live in..a young man can't show up at a board meeting, or a business meeting with ass out, gold teeth, or in pumps and a purse and expect to be taken seriously. Morehouse seeks to shatter the current sterotypes of the young black man and matriculate men who ARE articulate, well dressed, and well prepared to work in any corp setting, or run any business, or speak and relate to ANY group of people...regardless of race or background. I think our community/our people need to wake up and stop glorifying "thugism" in all forms. I agree that as a people...we should rebel against some things..but to rebel against something as positive as this is nonsense, in my opinion. On a side note...as a child, I was ALWAYS taught that a man should remove his hat at the table and inside a buidling...good old school values..all about values and respect. Way to go Morehouse! Prepare those young men for success. As you mature as a man, you put away childish things!

Nosaggin, I think you are under a big false assumption. I do not know nor have I read serious stories on "Morehouse Men." So who is paying "close" attention to Morehouse men other than people affiliated with Morehouse? Since we're on the subject of the real world.

In the real world, Morehouse's rich legacy has long since diminished as more and more black men choose to educate themselves at more prestigious nonblack colleges and universities. That's a fact. If you look at the current enrollment of young black men of significant accomplishments, very few are Morehouse students. If you look at the current number of black men of significant accomplishments, very few are HBCU grads and even less are Morehouse Grads.

If Morehouse believes banning men from wearing ballcaps in the school cafe is in their best interests, more power to them. While it may make some happy, I doubt the policy itself would attract a different breed of student. The days of the "Morehouse Man" has waned and believing that attending the school carries the same weight as it once had is counterproductive.

This is a feel good policy.

MidWestGuy,thank you for your institutional analysis of Morehouse College. I think its so funny how people who never attended the college can examine our institutional DNA and tell us that we are not what we used to be. Until you experience Morehouse, I cannot accept what you say. On another note, I think it's wonderful that young black men can attend Harvard, Standford and Princeton and other non-black institutions. Morehouse, like any institution, is striving and thriving. From time to time we fall short like any instituition.

Sorry, MidwestGuy, but you seem to make many assumptions and ubsubstantiated statements. It is sad that you present your statements as if they are actually facutal. Morehouse still has a proud tradition, public recognition (not just among blacks), and is still recognized as one of the Top US colleges. Check ANY of the collegiate reviews. Morehouse's legacy and academic excellence lives on. So funny how so many Morehouse "outsiders" are so intrigued about the Morehouse...hmmmmmm! Guess it's that Morehouse Mystique! As for Morehouse's legacy being "diminished"...TOO FUNNY! Morehouse continues to turn out top scholars, Rhodes scholars, community-centered, well-rounded, mission-oriented, bright young men. Many non-celebrity Morehouse men are ALL OVER THE PLACE doing great things, earning and maintaining respect in various indutries. The Wall Street Journal recently named Morehouse as one of the top feeder schools for the 15 most prominent graduate and professional schools in the country! This is JUST ONE shining accomplishment and example of public recognition among many! Not sure what your ethnic background is, and I won't assume, but anyone with any sense of true objective awareness would celebrate this institution for what it has done since its inception, and what it continues to do present day, especially given the current state of young black men in this country!

Nosaggin, no I didn't graduate from Morehouse but am familiar enough with the school to know its history. However, your comment really contradicts with Anon. Anon believes that Morehouse has considerable name recognition from outside of the Morehouse community. To me, that means that plenty of people who didn't attend Morehouse, know about Morehouse. On the other hand, you believe that only those who attended Morehouse are equipped with enough knowledge about the school to warrant a semiserious discussion.

Anon, according to the USNews report, Morehouse is a 3rd-tier school much like Roanoke and Wisconsin Lutheran Colleges. I never disagreed that Morehouse doesn't have a rich tradition and plenty of public recognition.

I've checked the college reviews and while Morehouse's marketing literature does accurately state that Morehouse "was" ranked as one of the top feeder schools, it was based on a 2003 study. If that is your the shining example of accomplishment, I would kindly direct you to the year 2009.

Bearing witness to a sea of black men in full academic regalia is nothing short of amazing. But it is what it is. Morehouse like most HBCU's is suffering and will continue to as more and more black men choose to pursue higher education at nonHBCU's.

So you will know, there is nothing remotely mysterious or intriguing about Morehouse. Good school and all but been there done that. Knowing the military-like structure the community has now adopted for its students, it is not a school I would suggest sending my son to. Looks like he's going to Howard after all

Damn!

NOSAGGINATDAHOUSE, why are you posting as me, in order to reply to me? Is that the Morehouse common sense?

I could not want to be at Morehouse, I dont know where that college is located. I am not american nor in america. So stop shooting blanks.

My question was why this "college" does not concentrate on excellent teaching and research output to be listed at least in the top 1000 globally by an agency like the World Bank, the IMF or the UN or other reputable rating agency?

If dress code fascism is their only current claim to publicity, well then, that may explain Nosag as its output.

MidWestguy, looking at rankings on a paper and never attending the school versus attending the school yields a totally different perspective. Morehouse may be listed as third tier but it definitely provides a first tier education; otherwise, Harvard, Yale, Princeton, University of Chicago, Columbia University etc. would not be knocking on the door steps of Morehouse looking to recruit. You have never experienced Morehouse until you do then it doesn't really matter what you think. I think its great that your son will attend Howard. We fully understand that Morehouse is not for everyone and only those who desire to be there will come.

nhlanhla, Every school has its own unique mission. Morehouse is an institution that focuses on teaching and not research; therefore, we may not be recognized as the top 1000 by some because we are not a research driven school. But Morehouse Men have long ago set the trend and produced excellence in their respective fields. If you want to know more, do your research. I already know the history.

Good for you NOSAGGINATDAHOUSE!! Stand up for what you believe is true. Sometimes you really get sick and tired of stumbling across some of the comments on this blog thinking that you're getting something of substance when you only get people who are blowing smoke just to see themselves in print. It would certainly be nice to just respect others opinions that might be different. Keep on defending your beliefs.

MidwestGuy, this is the LAST message I have for you on this matter: I have a very transitory interest when it comes to entertaining ignorance. I don't mean for that to be taken offensively at all. However, I invite you to engage in more thorough research. Morehouse is STILL recognized as one of the Top feeder schools. And even if it were only based on a 2003 study (which isn't the case), would that make the accomplishment any less significant?? Please get over the hate. I can't help BUT believe you have some deeply rooted hate for the insitution...although you TRY to cover it with the occasional compliment. But, I guess that's how hate works, huh? Lastly, if it is true for you that there is "nothing remotely mysterious or intriguing about Morehouse"...then why do you take the time to familiarize yourself with its history? Why are you blogging on a Morehouse related subject? You are so full of contradictions...I dont have the time--or energy--to spell them all out! Sending your son to Howard...the ultimate hate statement! But I respect Howard almost as much as I respect Morehouse. They are both great institutions striving to become better. So, I think your son will receive a great education there. Like nosag stated, Morehouse is not for everyone! But, what school is? Sidenote for the uninformed: Morehouse DOES focus on excellence in teaching..always has. The focus is becoming stronger everyday, as is the insitution. There is also a newfound focus on research in key areas. Go Morehouse! Let your light shine!

Ugh.. Morehouse new policy is a prime example of petit-bourgeois anxieties and obsessions with neatness. These attitudes are pervasive in the lower middle class - presentability and a proper image become an obsession. In this case the message seems to be: "Hello white people, look how neat we look! Please take us seriosly!" I'm sorry but that is truly how outlandish this new policy sounds. You would NEVER find this at a top college that is not either Christian or Black-dominated. College and university should be a time to find oneself, to question things, to question authority!, to be creative and experiment. This is best done not in "neat and appropriate" clothes, but in whatever you feel like wearing!

I truly cannot understand this. Morehouse is saying to its ADULT student population that they cannot be trusted to make their own decisions about what to wear. And yet they pride themselves on their "outstanding legacy of producing leaders". Hmm.. What is it about these leaders that disqualifies them from making decisions about what they should wear??

I truly cannot understand this. Morehouse is saying to its ADULT student population that they cannot be trusted to make their own decisions about what to wear. And yet they pride themselves on their "outstanding legacy of producing leaders". Hmm.. What is it about these leaders that disqualifies them from making decisions about what to wear??

I truly cannot understand this. Morehouse is saying to its ADULT student population that they cannot be trusted to make their own decisions about what to wear. And yet they pride themselves on their "outstanding legacy of producing leaders". Hmm.. What is it about these leaders that disqualifies them from making decisions about what to wear??

So, Flip....in your first post..it seems you take issue with Morehouse promoting neatness? Are you serious? You then go on to say..that these attitudes are pervasive in the "lower middle-class"? Again, are you serious? Since when did the desire to dress "neat" become a class issue? Give me a break! Encouraging our young men to dress neat by pulling their pants up and not showing their asses is not to impress the white man, instead it is to improve our own self-image. Think about that. Walk through any predominately black urban center/neighborhood. Look at the young men. What do you see (overwhelmingly)..sagging pants, asses out, filthy boxers showing, gold teeth, do-rags, etc. This is acceptable for our people? The only thing that's pervasive is the glorification of "thugism" in all forms. It's plaguing our community..especially the young men. They idolize and mimmick the thug mentality. It eventually leads to destruction. Sorry, but I want more for our young men. I certainly want...and expect..more of young collegiate men, like those at Morehouse. Yes Morehouse prepares and produces leaders! What reputable male leaders do YOU KNOW that sag their pants and let their butt's hang out in a business setting, that sport gold grillz and wear their do-rags while conducting business, that show up to lead their meetings or the masses in full drag? Mostly all institutions have some type of dress code. They all have rules and regulations. If a student can't get with those rules and regs...they have the choice of leaving and not attending at all! The "new" dress code is what Morehouse deems appropriate...and its not outlandish in my opinion..it's a private institution that honors its tradition. If a student doesn't like it, they can leave. It's a choice!

I am as opposed to thug-ism as the next guy. I think grills look ridiculous, I think a du-rag looks like panty-hose on your head, I don't have any interest in what brand of underwear the guy standing in front of me prefers. But I certainly think somneone of college-age is old enough to choose his own clothes. Being eccentric has always been part of the student experience - imagine if the flower-power generation of students would have been prohibited from wearing their tunikas and flowers, and forced to be neat and presentable - how dull! Once you enter working life you have to conform and start creating a professional identity and image anyway, so why not let students be students until they become young professionals?

As for the posting anonymously proud? Who are you? Faculty members or Vice Chancellor HIMself - since i cant imagine you have gender equity. A V.C. bent over at defending the ridiculous

The school's leadership must grow up and stop hate on GAY students, because actually that's the MESSAGE to your hypocritical and hateful rhetoric dressed up as "dress code".

And while at it, think about admitting young black women too? They do exist in the real world that you are so "apparently" bent over at mimicking.

"a newfound focus on research in key areas". Newly found for sure.

To me you seem like nothing but the silliest idea at a boys-only-high-school. But hey, thank God, I am not the only one who sees you for your mediocrity.

Did I read PURSE and PUMPS! WOW, at Morehouse!

Nlahlah (or whatever) you obviously have some inner hatred or something going on. But, I guess you're entitled to that. As you stated, you are not in America or American. So why are you here....speaking on things that you obviously have no clue about? There is nothing ANTI-GAY about this policy or Morehouse. But, you wouldn't understand. So, you don't like Morehouse or what you "think" it stands for. We get that. You're entitled to your opinion. So, no disrespect, but NEXT!

It's nhlanhla - not whatever. that's if you really meant no disrespect. Trust me i have no ounce of random hatred. I do hate hypocrisy nonetheless

and yes i'm not american nor in america. to be clear i wrote that to point out that, i could not physically be at Harvard nor some other white university, because someone else suggested that i was against MH merely because i was jealous because i had been bought at some other white institution as token black.

Anyway i'd say to you, beware you didn't ask me "Why are you here..." as though you were one of characters in that film "District 9". That would just be too far down the drain to come back from, dear MH graduate.

I'd like to know the thought process for choosing Morehouse in the first place for those students who wish to wear pumps or other attire found only in the women's department of every retail outlet. Exactly why did you choose Morehouse College to matriculate? What was it that made you choose that particular college out of all the colleges and universities in this country and abroad?

Black people don't like gays. I thought we made that obvious with our large OBAMA turn out at the polls in California at the same time voting FOR Prop 8. Get it now? !! American blacks only care about OUR civil liberties. Not equality for all

This took the expected course. Because I was critical of Morehouse's policy and questioned its continued relevance in age where more and more black men are choosing to attend nonHBCU's (Morehouse included), I was told that I don't have the right to talk about it because I didn't attend the school. Because I accurately pointed out Morehouse's rankings (the same rankings ALL colleges use to market themseles) among colleges and universities, I must have a deep seated hatred for the school.

Bullsh.it

I don't have a reason to harbor any hatred for a school that graduates more black men in one commencement ceremony than many collegs combined. How can you hate that? I don't like Morehouse's policy. I don't like Morehouse advocates telling others that they can't be critical of a Morehouse policy because they didn't attend the school. That's dumb.

This is an article about Morehouse that is not featured on a Morehouse website or blog. It's The Daily Voice. If you don't want nonMorehouse people voicing opinions on Morehouse-related issues, start your own secure blog requiring a password.

Until then, lose the sensitivity.

Ostend, it would more than likely save you from spiked blood pressure if you not only skip past my posts, but stop trying to comment about me and others you disagree with. No one is checking for your approval at the door. So do what you do best and blow on that!

Great article! Morehouse apparently lacked the guts to say what they were really thinking. "No broke n*ggas and no f*ggots at manly Morehouse." Are they really trying to convince us that 1) men of college age don't know how to dress, and 2) there are really enough Morehouse men in heels prancing around campus for this to even be an issue? If the Morehouse men had any balls (no pun intended), they'd start going to class in kilts.

If you do not wish to adhere to the dress code, there are plenty of other HBCUs for you to attend. Like it or not, The House has a right to a dress code. Years ago students would not have been caught dead wearing saggy pants, hats/doo-rags/shades in class. Even the gay brothers would not have dared to wear pumps and purses because they understood where they were and why there were there. Notice, I am not differentiating between a doo-rag and a dress; there is an acceptable standard of dress and behavior that is expected of a Morehouse man. The administration should have cracked down on this years ago. thank you, Dr. Franklin. If you're not willing to live up to the mystique/expectations of becoming a Morehouse man, feel free to exit and matriculate at a host of other institutions. I am sure you will be welcomed with open arms.

Don't flatter yourself Midwest Guy. I quit reading your post months ago but if the shoe fits wear it. No one including me asked for your sorry chatter. Morehouse will continue to exist with or without you. If it doesn't exist then so be it. Your ego is showing.

Oh! By the way Mid West Guy --- You're not allowed to address or speak to me. thanks!!!

The Morehouse dress code policy is so unusual (ludicrous) for a U.S. college that it was exposed on world news yesterday. I do not remember any dress code policy ever making world news.

The policy is long overdue and oh so very welcomed! Those who have a problem with it, as it is stated by this PRIVATE institution can pack their bags and leave. I am sure there is a college ready and willing to take you and your desire to make your own rules. When you become successful and can found your own college then you and your administration can open the flood gates to self expression at any cost. At Morehouse, the message is loud and clear and the traditions and legacy are more important than your desires to DO YOU. Kudos to the Morehouse sdministration for FINALLY laying down the law!

Yes, you are tripping. Where in corporate America, where these young men are headed, do you see caps, do-rags and/or hoods, grillz, etc. in the work place???? YOU DON'T. The problem with society today is that we stopped teaching what was right in the name of doing what was wrong and accepting that as reality. Thanks Morehouse for stepping to the plate to address an issue that has gone too long in the closet and needing to be brought to the forefront. My son attends Morehouse and didn't like the new policy but will do what is asked of him knowing that in his "away time" he is free to do whatever he wants. It's like that on any job, you follow the company rules and when you leave at the end of the day, you do whatever you want. If you don't like the company rules, you seek another job somewhere else.

Yeah brother, you are tripping! It makes no sense for the men of Morehouse especially with its rich history to wear women's clothings!! That is inappropriate attire. Period!!!! I applaud the dress code and fully support Morehouse's administration!! I am glad they took a stand aganist non-sense. We need to have higher standards for our young African American Men!!! Matter of fact I am going to write a check to the school right now and a thank you for taking action.

Must have been Toni Morrison's novel "Paradise" where a core of black men unite to kill "stray" women at a neighbouring convent.

is a great pity what years of oppression can do to the psyche of the once oppressed as they get on the road to becoming the new oppressors with great zeal.

Done! I put on my high heals.. my favorite skirt and the check is in the mail! Thank you Morehouse for finally seeing the world from my point of view.

Thank you for this post, brother. You people are imbeciles. You have the right to believe whatever you want, but you do NOT have the right to obstruct someone else's freedom. What you fail to realize is that there was a time when someone obstructed our freedom. When whites believed we were savages and did not have the intelligence to make our own decisions. We were forced to accept certain social ideas that still affect us today. This is the slippery slope you initiate when you start to limit peoples freedom of expression. What's next? Women at Spelman will not be able to have natural hair or will be prohibited to wear "male like clothing"? Like it or not, this is a reality...People reflect a vast variety of beliefs and styles and to promote homogeneity is extremely close minded and it simply reflects the oppressed taking on the ideas of the oppressor. Think for yourselves. This is ridiculous!!

The solution is simple - if you are black, gay and have no tolerance for such bull, take your tuition and your brain where they can be free! I will never understand why any black gay man with good sense would even go to an HBCU, especially Morehouse. Give me a break ... go where you can be who you are. As others said, these HBCUs are coasting on decades-old reputations that don't mean a thing now. So what if MLK went there? That's great but that has nothing to do with the Morehouse of today. The fact that this has made news all over the damn world shows how stupid it is. Morehouse is just feeding into the stereotype that we as black people are small-minded and stuck in the stone ages. This will not benefit Morehouse in the long run.

Since my last post a week ago I've watched this delve into the typical personal attack, fact twisting, and inaccurate representation of what the college is trying to do with this policy. I have to laugh because it's no wonder when we as a people can't even talk about a dress code with out it becoming ridiculous, that our elected officials end up having outbursts at our President during assembly. But back to the point, there are 11 rules listed in this article. It seems most people either have a problem with the gender specific rule or the fact that Morehouse created the code in the first place. So first things first. 1) If you don't like the rules, don't go there. This should be a no-brainer here. 2) If you want an education, you go to college. If you want to find yourself, join Greenpeace. 3) Morehouse College did not say you cannot dress in drag, wear caps, grillz etc. They said you can't do that out and about on campus. As a private institution, as in any other private business, they reserve the right to do that. 4) Morehouse College is no more anti-gay than the next college or university. CU Boulder Colorado isn't that far from me and it's about as liberal as you can get outside of Berkley and it has the same gender issues that Morehouse is going through. And they have a dress code as well. 5) Just because a person is in college doesn't mean they know how to act or present themselves in public. If these student don't know that it's common etiquette to remove hats indoors or to not walk out of your dorm in your PJ's them the college has a duty to teach them that. And if these young men attend Morehouse then that means that they either have money, or know how to get money. No one can say they can't afford some khakis. What people should be asking is why has it become necessary for Morehouse to even have to address this issue let alone have to add more rules to it's dress code. Things have changed at Morehouse since I was a student there... It's not that the school has higher standards than before, I feel that it's the students that have lowered theirs.

I think this is all stupid period ! I think anyone with common sense will know how to dress for an interview for any job ,if not they better ask somebody.School should be place where they should be learning period,black folks have always been innovators not duplicators why are trying to diminish our legacy of trendsetting? from ancient Egypt to us wearing baggy cloths and apple bottoms jeans.I think its time and a place for everything ,college should be about growing and maturing anyway. A dress code may prepare them for an interview but what about their intellect ,comprehending logic and reasoning in the real world ? sure its good to climb the corporate ladder what about schools teaching to create and support their own corporate ladder?

Unfortunately, "theone", there are a lot of individuals/students who don't know what to wear for an interview and it's not that they are stupid or don't have common sense. Mostly, it's that they usually don't know any better and many of them don't understand the organizational/corporate culture. Wearing your Sunday Best or what you wore to the club the night before isn't appropriate, but people do it because they don't know any better. We need to take our blinders off and realize that there are black folks who have a lot of barriers and challenges and sometimes our families, friends, or institutions of higher learning are not meeting those needs because many of us have those blinders on. Sometimes those inappropriate behaviors, and unacceptable habits are part of the environment that they grew up in and because of various systems to move students ahead in our public schools many students are set for failure because they don't know any better. Look at some of the pro-atheletes who are in our educational institutions and some of the high profile mistakes they make because of being inexperienced or just plain ignorant. This problem is more complex then Morehouse requiring a dress code. Morehouse is just giving a badly needed start to divert some of those complex issues. One of the other posters said it best. "If you don't like the rules don't go to that school."

Put me in the camp that thinks this dress code is over-kill and insulting.

First of all college age men (and women for that matter) shouldn't need to be told how to dress. I'd take it as a personal insult if I were a Morehouse man.

Secondly, if the young men at Morehouse are committing these alleged fashion faux pas'simply mandating that they stop is more likely to create resentment rather than foster the kind of change in mentality that I presume the policy aims to promote.

Thirdly, for those arguing that the school is simply preparing Morehouse men for the rules of appropriate attire in the corporate world, I say hog-wash. Give me a break. Are you seriously suggesting that young men who were bright enough to get into Morehouse, don't have sense enough to know that sagging jeans, do-rags and bare feet are not appropriate attire in a corporate work environment? I'm sure every college student knows that the clothes they wear to class sometimes wouldn't fly in their chosen profession. I know sometimes I wore shorts, old jeans, t-shirts abd sweat suits to class and I didn't need a dress code to know that such attire was not appropriate for an interview or to wear to work in my chosen field.

I would also add for those pushing the preparation for the work world argument, college is the time when young people should be free to find themselves, express themselves, and have the room to fully explore who they are and who they hope to become. There's time enough to conform to the strictures of the corporate world -- I definitely don't see the need nor the benefit of imposing these kinds of constraints on college kids any sooner than it's necessary. Young people need to take full advantage of the freedom afforded during the college years.

I encourage the men of Morehouse to band together and demand an end to the dress code as an insult to to their intelligence. I say this as someone who cringes when I see young men sagging or wearing glitz on their teeth. I'm surprised the dress code didn't say anything about tatoos -- that's another thing I personally don't care for. Despite my distaste for these things I don't think you change anyone's mind or their mentality by becoming the fashion police and forcing them to conform to your taste. That's not the way to do it IMO.

Ostend Street, I hear what you're saying, but I don't think imposing a dress code on every kid in the school is necessary to address the problem you raise. You could have a "mandatory" preparation for the work world seminar/workshop to cover interviews, proper corporate attire, proper behavior and so on. A dress code -- imposed on everyone -- imposed for everyday of the school year is over-kill in getting that point across IMO.

It would provide a fuller and clearer picture if the opinion-piece written (months ago) in one of the internal MH newspapers, was reprinted. Or referenced.

That piece would show that the actual problem there relates to some of the unwelcome gay students' dress sense

The piece signaled disapproval, if not outrage, from a section of the MH community against some gay boys who stretched the gender lines in their dress expression

And then months later here comes a dress ban

Who is stupid enough not to realise the most probably causality.

I am just surprised no one has referred to that history til now.

I normally care a little about dress codes: but my seething here comes from the gay connection (or rather, disconnection and exclusion) and the fact that this is supposedly an academic institution. Not only is this dishonesty but it is also repression, and worse this is done at an institution whose objectives must be to seek and promote truth against both these outcomes sought by the formulation process and implementation of such a policy.

It has little or nothing to do with the corporate world preparation, although I'd also have problems with that too. But not as acidic as I have against such a blatant lie.

Robin thanks so much for your respectful comment and I do see and understand your point of view. Unfortunately we have to agree to disagree because I work in an environment everyday that shows me first hand that on many levels our folk need assistance badly. The sad thing about this is that many of the young men that I see could really have been Morehouse Candidates but opportunities were snatched away from them because someone didn't intervene early in their lives. I attended an old boys prep school and we had a dress code from the freshman to the senior year. Each year it was elevated to prepare us for the world of work and a college career. Again, I say if you don't want the dress code go somewhere else. But, at some level the dress code is needed and on your own time do your own thing. Those points were well articulated in other posts on this site. But thanks again for not being nasty or rude.

But Ostend Street, my dear friend I must say I am sorry but you could not possibly and suddenly decide to portray an image of yourself where you are the most generous guy and full of compliment:

Were not these your very words to somebody else right here?

Don't flatter yourself Midwest Guy. I quit reading your post months ago but if the shoe fits wear it. No one including me asked for your sorry chatter. Morehouse will continue to exist with or without you. If it doesn't exist then so be it. Your ego is showing.

Now, congeniality is a nice to have, but some incidents and occasions just should not allow it. Not even its fake version a.k.a. rhetorical points.

@nhlanhla - point well taken - now, moving right along!!!!

Nhlanhla, thank you thank you thank you. You forgot to mention him (a poster) instructing me (another poster) not to respond to him. And that's the sort of respect he wishes? And I was 2pac in my former life.

Robin I understand you fully. I also asked above whether Morehouse trolled the local jails looking for students. I didn't understand how this had become such a major issue after the students had already been accepted. So maybe the issue is really is what the students wear rather than where they came from which is what some of the posters suggest.

Some time ago Gerren Gaynor (fellow Morehouse student) wrote a rather provoking article where he expressed his discontent with the manner in which gay morehouse students choose to dress. Here's a snipet of his remarks:

Over the years, despite social divergence on campus, the Morehouse community has done their share to both accept and adjust to the growing homosexual population. But don't you think this has gone too far? A boy with a pocketbook is far. It's not so much that "straight" men of Morehouse are uncomfortable with the gay lifestyle, but more so because it is constantly and quite robustly thrown in their face. Does being a gay man include adopting the traits of a woman? Because if that's the case, there's a more fitting school, and it's called Spelman College. I'm all for being who you are. If you like women, go on and date women. If you like men, be my guest and date men. But if you are born a man, you should be just that--a man. If I have to look twice to tell if I'm looking at a man or woman on an all-male campus, then something is tragically wrong.

Needless to say his comments did not elicit much support. He was called a homophobe among other things by many, including Ostend. Oh how times have changed.

Midwest --"I love you too!"

If students have issues with the rules, perhaps they should transfer to a school that does not have a dress code. I find it odd that this is such big news, and, I also find it silly that they have to tell men not to dress as women, as I'm sure that has never been an issue. But, to get rid of baggy, saggy, jail house pants and silly do rags, I'm all for it. Clean cut is what works in the real world, and they should learn it while at school since it seems few learn it at home if they have to be told not to waer pj's in public, maybe if many of the young men who just can't seem to get a job realized this, they could be more productive.

I never wrote that line: "I'm gay. Sorry"

Some of you people are just as pathetic as the right wing.

I could never say: I am sorry, I am gay.

If Lenin was black and gay, that would be ME. From 17 years old, I am not sorry about s***.

Who are they fooling? I know more Black gay men that have come out of Morehouse than any other HBCU. Telling them what to wear will not stop them from being who they are while they are on campus, it will just cause more conflicts and hate towards gays and those who are trans-gender. They are stuck on tradition versus progression, or rather stuck on stupid. The world is changing...Morehouse...wake the FUGG up!

What is wrong with embrasing a dress code? Catholic schools require dress codes. Most public schools (in Chicago) are requiring them. Morehouse's policy isn't saying you CAN'T wear the items mentioned, it just says you can't wear them to class and campus funtions. On the weekends and off campus you can wear what you want. Face is people appropriate dress applys to most aspects of this world. NBA players MUST wear suits to and from the games. Actors and actresses MUST wear their costumes when performing. Business professionals MUST wear business attire to work and work functions. Being a student in a classroom is NOT playtime. Most of the students on MH campus know when and when not to wear certain things, its the few that DON'T know that spoil it for the rest. Some people, no matter the education, have to be told or "prompted" to dress appropriately. How many times in the workplace has there been a dress code of "casual" on Fridays and here comes a female in low cut "this" and hoochy "that". Or a male in sagging "this" or "that". Its probably only 3 or 4 depending on the size of the place, but it spoils it for the other hundreds of workers who dress in appropriate work attire. Human resources then has to respond with a "dress code" and spell it out for those who apparently don't know. But hey its only for 8 hours five days a week. During the other times you can hooch and thug it out if you want. When you're not in class in the city doing your thing, wear what you want. Why is this wrong? Hippies and flower children in the sixties weren't wearing that garb to work! Sometimes people, we play parts or roles. Ask actors and actresses, putting on certain attire helps make you feel a certain way. Men walk with more authority and power and confidence when dressed. It's the same for women. Not saying this is true for ALL, but for most it is. For the life of me I can't see why this is wrong. Knowone is telling them how to dress 24/7, but for a certain part of your day (as you will when you are an adult and taking care of yourself and perhaps others) you WILL dress in a certain way. There are very FEW adults in this world who can dress ANYWAY they want ANYTIME they want. Might as well get ready in college! Period!

Oh, and as far as the gay aspect of this blog goes, female attire should NOT be worn to class or campus functions if you're a man. I'm not saying you shouldn't wear female attire (if thats what you're into). And, btw gay men aren't the only ones wearing female attire, straight men do too but not to work or class cause they don't want to be called out. (you know its true) I've never seen a cross dresser where I work and there are 24,000 employees here. But I bet there are some cross dressers who work here. Let's face it, women can get away with way more dress options than men. I work with a lesbian woman who wears "casual" men's clothing ALL the time even when its not casual day and knowone says a word. I don't think that HBCU's are the most gay friendly places, but I also don't think that this particular policy is homophobic. MH isn't saying, don't be gay, just back away from the pumps.. for a certain part of your day.

I've been known myself to throw a nice pair of pumps on just for a fun weekend.

I’m glad I didn't go to Morehouse. I find the pro-comments just plain dumb. If blacks really wanted to get prepared for the corporate America, just go to a predominate white school because that's who they will be working for and with. Duh. I remember Morehouse orientation; I was so turned off by the machismo and fraternity like mentality. It was frightening. Also, in college, my freshman year I wore half cut off shirts, my friend George rolled around on roller-skates with silver disco mini shorts, lol. Sophomore, I was a rocker. Junior, I was a pysch major. Senior year I was student president of Student Affairs. Graduated, moved to Chicago, took out the belly ring, nose rings, tongue ring, and put on Brooks Brothers and got my first job because I learned to like myself. That's most important. I got to figure me out and not be a drone for capitalism.

Funny i look at that list: I wore pajamas, caps, sweatshirts, jeans, sandals, sometimes walked around barefoot in the Student area, probably would have worn a grill if i didn't find it tacky to class. stupid rules. i swear the south is so damn backwards.

Neo, damn man! That's deep. Im also a Brooks Bros fan. What I find absolutely amazing though, is: In a higly developed, wealthy, first world country some of my brethren are obsessed with the idea of grooming themselves in order to be considered good enough (read:less threatening from a racial point of view) to work for the man. That is so very said I am almost in tears. Do these people think so low of themselves that the only thing they can aspire to is be yet another cog in a white man's machine. What about staring your own enterprise? What about putting yourself where you can make your own rules? Corporate clones are a dime a dozen. Be original for pete's sake. Have these people ever thought of self employment? If Im going to the bank to ask for a big loan, or to churh,to a funeral, to a wedding, to a graduation ceremony I will still choose appropriate attire, but I will never wear anything Im not comfortable in. Im sure that all MH men have seen how those thuggish rappers & ballers wear everytime they are hauled before court, and most of them did not attend any college. It's really presumptious to suggest that MH students are so clueless & ignorant. Nhlanhla, where is the Ubuntu in all of this?

Neo, damn man! That's deep. Im also a Brooks Bros fan. What I find absolutely amazing though, is: In a higly developed, wealthy, first world country some of my brethren are obsessed with the idea of grooming themselves in order to be considered good enough (read:less threatening from a racial point of view) to work for the man. That is so very said I am almost in tears. Do these people think so low of themselves that the only thing they can aspire to is be yet another cog in a white man's machine. What about staring your own enterprise? What about putting yourself where you can make your own rules? Corporate clones are a dime a dozen. Be original for pete's sake. Have these people ever thought of self employment? If Im going to the bank to ask for a big loan, or to churh,to a funeral, to a wedding, to a graduation ceremony I will still choose appropriate attire, but I will never wear anything Im not comfortable in. Im sure that all MH men have seen how those thuggish rappers & ballers wear everytime they are hauled before court, and most of them did not attend any college. It's really presumptious to suggest that MH students are so clueless & ignorant. Nhlanhla, where is the Ubuntu in all of this?

Neo, damn man! That's deep. Im also a Brooks Bros fan. What I find absolutely amazing though, is: In a higly developed, wealthy, first world country some of my brethren are obsessed with the idea of grooming themselves in order to be considered good enough (read:less threatening from a racial point of view) to work for the man. That is so very said I am almost in tears. Do these people think so low of themselves that the only thing they can aspire to is be yet another cog in a white man's machine. What about staring your own enterprise? What about putting yourself where you can make your own rules? Corporate clones are a dime a dozen. Be original for pete's sake. Have these people ever thought of self employment? If Im going to the bank to ask for a big loan, or to churh,to a funeral, to a wedding, to a graduation ceremony I will still choose appropriate attire, but I will never wear anything Im not comfortable in. Im sure that all MH men have seen how those thuggish rappers & ballers wear everytime they are hauled before court, and most of them did not attend any college. It's really presumptious to suggest that MH students are so clueless & ignorant. Nhlanhla, where is the Ubuntu in all of this?

And this is what the old crocodile had to say:

While Morehouse is defending their new policy as a measure to protect the school’s reputation — many find the new dress code to be homophobic and discriminatory to the school’s gay population. This perception has been further strengthened after Dr. William Bynum, the school’s Vice President of Student Services, had this to say, “We are talking about five students who are living a gay lifestyle that is leading them to dress a way we do not expect in Morehouse men.”

Of course the policy was always a disguised attempt to trim the frills of a few silly frocks.

Also ironic is that most gay students supported the policy.

Trust the gay men who would be rather die than be caught in the company of effeminate, let alone cross dressing, men. And of course the intersex dont exist for these small minded fear ridden wimps

It's like living in the hey day where light skinned or mixed race blacks could never make friends with tar-baby blacks.

Ubuntu? Tiego, maybe that's just too foreign a concept to even think about if one is mostly worried about making a corporate impression, which would hardly even lead to a promotion with real responsibility. It seems self-love-affair seems to be the first but steepest hurdle to cross, still, at this point.

I don't know who the culprit is, but I didn't post the statement, "I've been known to put on a nice pair of pumps just for fun on the weekend".

Lets forward the policy to ALL HBCs!

I agree with Morehouse's policy. This is not an issue of trying to be white and stereotypically male, (caucasian/heteronormative). This is a case of a conservative, middle class normative institution reaffirming those values. Spellman has a dress code and it is the sister institution to Morehouse. Striving to the middle and upper class lifestyle is what both colleges were founded to promote, and what its alumni have achieved. While dressing in a hip hop, urban, street or transvestial manner may be expressive, it is not every liberal arts college's responsibility to provide a venue for their expression. Let Morehouse practice its different, i.e. conservative culture. Morehouse, a big thumbs up from this African American Duquesne University, graduate student.

Do you think if President Obama was wearing sagging pants, grillz and doo rags he would have been voted into presidency??? Of course not!!

When President Obama was in college he sported an afro, supicious tight shirts and pants and smoke cigerrettes because that was the look at the time. Duh. I'm sure if he would've gone to Morehouse it would have been inappropriate for blacks to sport afros, because that's not a corporate america look.

The dress code is appropriate for any institution of higher learning, especially Morehouse. Remember people, that the young men are there to be educated, and not to be distracted by irrelevant and faddish social practices. The Morehouse tradition should be protected, as we expect anyone who bears the insignia of a Morehouse graduate to do well and make an impact in whatever field they choose. In addition, the acceptance of this cross dressing practice serves to devalue, depreciate, and marginalize the accomplishments, and contributions that previous Morehouse Men have made. Let's keep the conversation about what we can do to improve the economy, education, and health care, instead of discussing irrelevant topics such as cross dressing, and if you don't know how to dress, you better ask somebody(Somebody being a Morehouse Man).

Sorry, I donlt have any big words or long expositions on the role of college to offer. I just say good for Morehouse! These young men may very well realize (and not care) the way that their style reflects on themselves, but they need to understand that it also reflects on the college and bottom line- this is not the image that the college wants to reflect. It doesn't look good, it doesn't say I'm training to be a professional, and it doesn't say hire me or someone from this college. These aren't inhumane standards being placed on the students and they can dress as badly as they want when they're off campus.They'll either get used to it,or get over it.

If you HAVE to cross dress just do it on the weekends like I do. Now Please lets move on!!

First I would like to say I commend Morehouse for setting this policy into place and taking back its campus. Its important to realize like many before me have written, there is a time and place for everything in this world. As a student at another HBCU I am trying to get a similar policy put into place at our school. Its sad to walk around campus and see young men or even young women sagging their pants. Its even sadder to see young men dress like women and women who dress and act like men. Its time as a society black, white and etc. to stand up for something and say enough is enough. Its time for us to stop tolerating every behavior in this world because we don't want to been seen as prejudiced to others. I'm all for freedom and expressing oneself but, if dressing and acting like a women or sagging your pants or wearing grills defines who you are as a MAN maybe its time for some real self evaluation. Being a black man in America I know the challenges and things that await for me in the real world and all Morehouse is trying to do is prepare Black Men and equip them with the tools that will led to a successful career and life. As a person who loves to dress up in suits and ties I also love to wear my Nikes and T- shirts as well. The policy a Morehouse doesn't prevent somebody from still wear their Nikes or Tims or even the caps and baggy jeans. The policy just calls for the end of sagging and wearing caps in the buildings. I'm not elistist or homophobic but I'm tired of MEN not being MEN. Its time for us to stand up and take our institutions back as well as our communities for the betterment of or society. Thanks to Hampton, Morehouse and other schools who have put these policies into place. Its time for all HBCU's and tradionally white institutions do the same.