By Maria DeJong

It is no secret that Homecoming season is upon us. Most schools have already held their dance, including our own Springfield High School. With Homecoming season comes the stress of dress shopping, designing outfits for Spirit Week, and running for Homecoming court. This year, Springfield High crowned their King and Queen duo; seniors Arielle Robinson and Simone Dolan. Joining them on homecoming court were 10 other seniors, five juniors, two sophomores and two freshmen. Congratulations to all our court members!

With all the traditional activities occurring fueled by homecoming spirit, the question arises- just how many, if any, of these annual traditions are outdated? The immediate suspect appears to be Homecoming court. Not to take anything away from our marvelous court members, but the general festivities of Homecoming have remained unaltered for over a century. While yes, new endeavors have arrived and old activities have come and gone, the sexism of the concept still lingers. 

Homecoming King and Queen is an honor bestowed upon two seniors every year. Of the numerous court members, only one duo can claim the title. But does anyone else find it ironic that Homecoming King and Queen, an American tradition, mimics a European monarchy of which we have never been governed? On top of that, the titles “King” and “Queen” hold more restrictions than the qualifications themselves. What’s to stop a homosexual couple or two best friends from running other than the titles? Some schools have taken it upon themselves to replace the higher titles with “Homecoming Royalty.” The indirect reference to higher power, in terms of the high school hierarchy, is much less restricting and much more accepting of any two people, regardless of relationship or gender. 

Considering the fact that the year 2026 looms closer every waking moment, the time for changes is now. And what better way to spark a change in society than in your very own high school?

(Courtesy of Ben Kramer)