This past week it was announced by 2017 class present Max Giarrusso that the Junior Prom theme would be changing from “Arabian Nights” to “Boardwalk.” This announcement comes weeks after the class of 2017 brainstormed and then voted on many possible themes including Arabian Nights, Boardwalk, Harry Potter, Starry Night, and Haunted House (prom is on Friday the 13th). The reason for this change was briefly explained through Max’s facebook post in the class of 2017 group which stated, “The previous theme has raised concerns about cultural appropriation and stereotyping, which we believe would undermine our school’s principle of mutual respect.”

Arabian Nights won 57-53 in the facebook poll open to the Junior class, with Boardwalks as the close second choice. Despite the fact that it was a close vote, those who voted for Arabian Nights are generally not only disappointed, but confused about the change. Junior Maya Rideout shared her feelings saying, “I am really disappointed because I voted for Arabian Nights. I don’t really understand why it had to be changed if we all voted and it was the clear winner.” Maya’s feelings echoed that of many juniors, including Jill Lemke who said “I feel like everything we do at school is offensive. No one thought the movie Aladdin was stereotypical and I feel like that’s what most of us had in our mind when we voted for Arabian Nights.”

The fact that the theme was deemed stereotypical or a violation of HHS’ principle of mutual respect is what has made people upset. Olivia Million, one of the 57 voters for Arabian Nights, shared her thoughts saying, “Honestly, I think it is worse that they are changing it. I feel that the class advisers should make their reasoning more clear because I feel there is a part of the student body that are unclear on the reason and its causing speculation.” In talking with my peers, the consensus is that no one even thought about the fact that this theme would or could be deemed ‘stereotypical’. Our visions included Disney’s Jasmine and Aladdin, genies, flying carpet riders, or simply a room filled with the beautiful colors that are evident in the Arab culture. Personally, I do not see how any of these things would undermine Hingham High School’s standard of mutual respect, as no one is claiming to be something they aren’t or intentionally disrespecting a culture. However, recent actions of Hingham High School students make it clear that not everyone is capable of maintaining respect for others during a school event, which is why I completely understand both sides.

The reason why it has been changed is simple: it may make some people uncomfortable and HHS should be a safe place for everyone. Brad Patterson, the 2017 class Vice President put it simply, “Even if a few or even one student gave us a reason why they would be offended, that is a reason to switch it.” The idea that no one should feel uncomfortable anywhere in relation to Hingham High is one I believe everyone stands behind. The issue however, is that there is disagreement about what might make someone uncomfortable, as some people see Arabian Nights as a fun prom theme while others see it as something offensive.

We are lucky to live in a town where making everyone feel safe and welcome has become a top priority.

Unfortunately, the sudden change presents the idea that this theme could possibly be stereotypical. This leads to conflicting opinions on mutual respect and political correctness: things that I feel should not be associated with the upcoming prom night, that our students are very excited for, and that our class officers have worked incredibly hard to plan.