Tuskegee University’s updated dress code banning bonnets and durags sparks online backlash
By Kayla Davis
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TUSKEGEE, Alabama (WVTM) — Tuskegee University’s updated dress code, which prohibits items such as bonnets, durags, and bedroom shoes, has sparked a heated debate on social media ahead of the new academic year.
The controversy stems from a message by Tuskegee President Dr. Mark Brown, which specifically outlined what students cannot wear on campus. While the university’s handbook has long required students to dress in “good taste,” the recent announcement has gone viral, drawing mixed reactions online.
Kaylan Parham, a 2022 Tuskegee graduate, said the discourse has been surprising.
“It feels like they were just kind of refocusing, like just reminding you of the standards that we already have. So what I’m seeing is blowing up all over the internet and the shade room and every which way. I’m like, wait, what’s going on here? Y’all talking about my school?” Parham said.
The updated policy also requires students to wear business attire for business meetings and avoid revealing clothing in class, the cafeteria, and convocation. Parham said dressing formally has always been part of Tuskegee’s culture.
“That was normal to see men walk around with suits or a nice shirt and tie. The ladies all dressed up, even if they weren’t going anywhere. It was just normal. And now I think it is normal to see people in their athleisure or more comfortable clothing,” Parham said.
The debate on social media has largely centered on the prohibition of durags and bonnets in public spaces. While Parham supports the university’s message, she believes the online reaction has been exaggerated.
“I’ve seen some very distasteful AI images of students, and they’re showing us on campus with bonnets and durags. It’s all fake, fake news. I’ve never seen anybody walking around with a bonnet on at school outside of the dorm.” Parham said.
Reflecting on changes in campus culture, Parham said traditions at Tuskegee have shifted since the pandemic.
“After COVID, you don’t know what anybody’s wearing to class because it’s just a bunch of black screens on your computer. A lot of traditions, things that were special to Tuskegee just got lost,” Parham said.
Despite the controversy, incoming freshman Tia Byrd said she understands the purpose behind the dress code.
“It’s our home away from home. So the part where it’s being enforced in like dining halls, areas that this is kind of like our kitchen, I kind of see the pushback from that. But of course, like being prepared, being prepared for our professional careers. I see the purpose,” Byrd said.
Parham emphasized the importance of appearance in making a positive impression.
“You should present yourself in the best way possible, and a lot of that has to do with appearance. Appearance is the first thing that speaks for you other than your reputation,” Parham said.
Tuskegee University referred inquiries to the original message sent to students, which stated in part, “The goal here is not meant to restrict you from enjoying the Tuskegee Experience, but to prepare you with a solid foundation for the workforce you will enter once you leave Tuskegee.”
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