Hudson Valley High School Eliminates Gender Specific Graduation Gowns

A Hudson Valley High School has eliminated gender specific graduation caps and gowns.

Carmel High School's graduation gowns are changing for reasons including addressing gender equality issues. There will no longer be different colored graduation gowns for boys and girls.

All genders will wear blue gowns at this year’s graduation.

According to Lohud, Carmel High School Principal Louis T. Riolo sent a letter to students and parents stating there were three reasons for the gown changes.

Riolo wrote that white gowns “were too sheer and clothing underneath was visible.” He added that all graduating students wearing the same color would make the ceremony more “collegial.”

Finally, Riolo said having all the students wear the same color would address “gender equality issues.” He did not add more about the equality issues.

One parent said that the change is counterproductive because it eliminates the option to identify with one's true gender.

The Carmel School's Superintendent Andy Irvin supports the decision. "There are going to be changes that happen, sweeping changes in some cases, due to transgender issues.” he said to LoHud. “Whether it be bathrooms, locker rooms, there are certainly civil rights implications. So, in my mind this one is a relatively minor one.”