Questionable but Unquestioned: The Movember Dispute

2 December 2015Charlie C, Rogers ‘16

Though this news may come as hard to believe for some, the annual Movember celebrations have recently come to a close. Movember is one of several traditions (including No-Shave November and Noshember) that call for men around the world to abstain from shaving in order to bring greater attention to men’s health issues. This year’s school-wide competition kicked off with the controversial decision to not allow participants to grow beards, goatees, or other facial hair extending beyond the standard moustache. Many students expressed dissatisfaction with the imposed restrictions, citing that they “undermine men’s health.” The faculty in charge of the ruling could not be reached for comment. 😉 Nevertheless, even with the losses incurred by those who – in protest – did not participate due to the exclusion of non-conforming facial hair, an impressive number of students still took part, sacrificing their looks in pursuit of victory. This pursuit will likely prove futile for any and all Grade 9s (or anyone other than Diego C for that matter) but that is besides the true meaning of the event, men’s health awareness. Now, at the end of the month, it is important that students such as Ethan B of Ellis House be reminded that drawing a moustache in pen does not improve anyone’s chances of winning nor does it compliment a man-bun. Finally, as a public service announcement, please remember the number one rule for when the school returns to standard appearance regulations: do not shave against the grain. Charlie C, Rogers ‘16

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