Decorum is defined as behavior, conduct, and appearance that is considered proper, dignified, and respectful in a given situation or social setting. Some key aspects of decorum include:
Following accepted conventions, customs, or proprieties for a particular occasion or environment. This may involve adhering to dress codes, using suitable language, or demonstrating good manners.
Behaving in a polite, gracious, and dignified way that does not detract or distract others or call improper attention to oneself.
Showing due respect to individuals, institutions, or groups by avoiding rude, vulgar, or offensive words and actions.
Maintaining an appearance or demeanor appropriate to one’s role, duties, or the expectations of a social or professional setting.
Acting with dignity, grace, and consideration for how one's conduct may impact others.
Abiding by moral codes and ethics standards suitable for the circumstance.
Overall, decorum involves being aware of what constitutes acceptable and harmonious behavior in a given situation and conducting oneself accordingly. The aim is to act in a civil, respectful, and appropriate manner.
But who defines what decorum is for a given place or situation? What about when decorum infringes upon freedoms or creates undo burdens on people or groups? There are few approaches a minority group can take to preserve their own practices when they conflict with mainstream decorum norms.
I bring this up in light of two articles about Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman.
One article, “Slobs of the world unite!’ Schumer changes Senate dress code to accommodate Fetterman,” bemoans the fact that the Majority leader has changed the rules. Another article, “Scoop: Schumer ditches Senate's informal dress code,” simply lays out the facts of the case and lets the reader decide what they think about it.
Why bring this up?
Dress codes, with their strict rules about grooming and attire, can often impede or limit disabled individuals in schools and workplaces. For people with mobility limitations, requirements like tucked-in shirts or certain shoes can be painful and difficult to put on. Codes frequently prohibit visible assistive devices like wheelchairs or prosthetics that many rely on for independence. Rigid rules about tight clothing or specific materials can also overwhelm the senses and cause distress for those with sensory processing disorders. Dress codes may prevent disabled people from clearly displaying communication aids or indicators for needed accommodations.
Plus, meeting strict standards can be financially burdensome for disabled individuals who experience higher rates of poverty (I know, a US Senator is not impoverished). Inflexible expectations can also lead to stigma, judgment and discrimination when disability-related variations in appearance arise. Overall, dress codes are often created without input from the disabled community or consideration of accessibility. By not providing case-by-case flexibility, dress codes can hamper access and equal opportunities for disabled students and employees. A thoughtful, inclusive policy is required to prevent undue burdens on people with disabilities.
Clearly, Sen. Fetterman has health issues. I don’t think allowing him a bit of grace in wearing what makes him feel comfortable is going to end the world. What do you think?
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Thought provoking and eye opening. I’ve learned that many autistic/neurodivergent people have sensory issues related to clothing but I hadn’t considered how dress codes affect them. I think Senator Fetterman deserves grace and compassion and should be allowed to wear what offers him comfort. I’m disgusted that this is an issue.
Thought provoking and eye opening. I’ve learned that many autistic/neurodivergent people have sensory issues related to clothing but I hadn’t considered how dress codes affect them. I think Senator Fetterman deserves grace and compassion and should be allowed to wear what offers him comfort. I’m disgusted that this is an issue.