RMHS’ long-awaited Spirit Week was just recently celebrated, one crucial time throughout the year in which the whole school community unites in a series of events that weave together upperclassmen and underclassmen alike. Theme days, the Thanksgiving football game, pep rally, and powderpuff game, all define this long-held week of tradition here at the high school.
However, the customary Powderpuff game, popular at many schools around the country, has long been debated regarding whether or not it is sexist in nature. Schools around the country have questioned it, some even going far enough as removing it from their school celebrations.
Powderpuff got its original rap for being sexist simply based on its name. A “powderpuff” was a material used to apply cosmetic face powder back in the early 1900’s when the game first became widely played. This namesake based off of makeup was not questioned during the time period in which the game became popular, as female roles in society were unquestionably based far more off of physical appearance.
But, in this day and age, the name came under fire, as the modern day woman and society is typically opposed to female definition being simply based off of outward appearance.
Today, “blondes versus brunettes” Powderpuff games have become increasingly popular, and have been especially targeted in the argument over Powderpuff’s potential sexist nature, because of the teams being decided based on female physicality and appearance.
Although there are understandable sides to both arguments, the majority opinion at RMHS appears to be those of the belief that powderpuff is not sexist, as only two out of the eleven girls interviewed about this issue presented any feeling that powderpuff can be viewed as sexist.
Those who believe that it may have some sexist elements to it, considering the fact that it is not traditional tackle football, and is not treated with the same deal of respect of traditional boys’ football, do not believe it should be discontinued.
The reasons which those interviewed believe that Powderpuff is not sexist and should be continued at the high school tend to be different, and can be generally grouped into three categories. Many girls believe that powderpuff is quite the contrary to being oppressive to females, and should be utilized as an opportunity to empower them.
Many participants this year believe that powderpuff presents a unique opportunity for girls who desire a chance to play football at some point during high school. Kylie Bringola, a junior who will be playing powderpuff this year said, “It is the only real opportunity girls get to play football in high school, and it only happens twice.”
Others see positivity in the organized game because it gives all upperclassmen girls something to participate in together, whether or not they are student athletes. Junior Julia Jack said, “It is something that you can participate in whether you play a sport or not, and is just a fun thing to do.”
Similarly, junior participant Allie Gill said, “Powderpuff is a fun game for the upperclassmen girls. Whether or not you participate in the game, it is nice to have an event devoted to the girls in our school, and feel like you are a part of something,” once again showing the inclusivity for all upperclassmen girls which the game presents.
The common belief that the powderpuff game every year is a tradition that should be continued was shared by all of those who see sexism in it, and those who do not. The sense of community and upholding of tradition is something highly valued at Reading High, and no matter what the individual’s belief is regarding the game of powderpuff, that deeply instilled ideal is portrayed in their want of the tradition to be upheld now, and in years to come.