The Carolinian Political Science Society (CPSS) stands firm with the Carolinian community in opposition to the dress code policy manifested in the student’s manual and dress code memorandum issued by the Office of Student Formation and Activities (OSFA) dated August 12, 2022.

 

 

The same memorandum, prescribing what the University dress code considers “appropriate” is subjective and does not hold credence, hence, should not be imposed on Carolinians collectively. It is likewise, blatantly limiting and is not inclusive to our gender-nonconforming fellow witnesses to the Word. The same tremendously impacts everyone’s right to self-determination.

This continuing imposition is a clear violation of the prohibition of any and all forms of discrimination towards any person and/or group of persons on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity, as enshrined in Cebu City Ordinance 2339 or the Cebu City Anti Discrimination Ordinance of 2012, and Cebu City Ordinance 2660 or the SOGIESC Equality Ordinance of 2022. Further, this contradicts the policy declaration of the University of San Carlos in its claim of bannering the UNESCO Policy Guidelines, specifically its principle of education inclusion.

 

 

 

The primary objective of the Carolinian Political Science Society (CPSS) is to give a sense of inclusivity and fairness within the Carolinian Community. It aims to maintain an unwavering conviction that everyone should be free to express themselves without anxiety or prejudice. This is why CPSS is spearheading initiatives to tailor USC's uniform and dress code guidelines toward promoting a non-discriminatory environment for everyone in our community.

At present, the dress code policy lacks inclusivity and fails to appreciate the diverse nature of the Carolinian student body. It assumes all students identify within the conventional gender binary, while completely disregarding non-binary persons or those who do not conform to gender stereotypes. These prejudicial rules add more difficulties for these individuals already marginalized in a society that does not accept them without bias or prejudice.

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Expression (SOGIE) have nothing to do with one’s academic performance and triumphs in life. The same is true with Cis Men growing their hair long and Cis Women cutting their hair short, among others. In the context of the university, a Carolinian’s gender is not a hindrance to reaching Professional Competence" (Scientia), "Nobility of Character" (Virtus), and "Commitment to Social Transformation" (Devotio). The CPSS stands strongly in forwarding that the University of San Carlos should not cultivate an environment whereby prejudices towards one’s SOGIESC are being inculcated and molded as part of the Carolinian identity. 

To address this problem, the CPSS has made official declarations and suggestions which plead for a revised uniform code that caters to students who identify as non-binary. Its positions have been legitimized through CPSS GA R. 003 S. 2022-2023, a document that expresses its perspective and objectives in terms of forging an environment where all individuals feel welcome and valued. This was a resolution that was passed by the CPSS during its General Assembly.

The Carolinian Political Science Society believes every student at the University of San Carlos has the right to feel accepted and valued, regardless of gender identity. That is why CPSS is calling on all members of the Carolinian community to join the signature campaign for a modified dress code policy. This campaign is an opportunity for us to have our voices heard and make a tangible difference in the lives of our fellow students.

 

 

Through active involvement in the initiative, we can pledge our allegiance to those who do not conform to traditional gender norms and exhibit our backing for a society that welcomes everyone. Collaboratively, we have the power to create an environment where each member of the Carolinian community receives fair treatment.

In sum, the CPSS is relentlessly making efforts to foster inclusivity and fairness at the University of San Carlos. Our conviction is that altering USC's uniform rules and dress code regulations represents a vital step toward establishing an all-embracing atmosphere for everybody. We plead with every student to support our petition drive and stand unitedly with gender non-binary persons in acknowledgment of their rights. Let us collaborate to transform our community into one that embraces diversity by granting a warm reception for everyone without discrimination or biases against them.