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Stepping Outside My Box Into Social Change

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Stepping Outside My Box and Into Social Change
Regina Weekley
South University Online

Stepping Outside My Box and Into Social Change
It has been said, “There have always been people who defy gender norms”, and I am one of those people. As a child comfort wasn’t something I felt in girlie dresses or even pink and white shoes, but baggy jeans and loose fitting T-shirts with matching boy’s sneakers. Being forced into what was “socially acceptable” or the “gender norm” of dressing like a girl because I was girl made life uncomfortable on several occasions and also became a battle within. I didn’t understand what the big deal was, I just wanted to be comfortable in my own skin, but not wanting to disappoint those who matter the most I conformed. I gave into social control, and forsook my individuality. In search of a peace within, I found myself having to step outside the box of the “norm” and step into my individuality which put me in violation of a folkway-wearing the other gender’s clothing. In this essay I will recall at least one situation I violated this folkway, discuss my feelings of violating the norm and other’s reaction to my violation.
Almost a week ago, I was being honored at an after five Gala for my work in community service. As we know galas have a pretty direct dress code; women normally wear a nice dress, and the men adorned with a nice suit and bow tie. When approach by my director with the specifics of the gala and my attendance being mandatory, I had to make a choice. Either I forego my individuality yet again, or violate folkway of wearing the other gender’s clothing. I chose my individuality, and wore a nice suit and bow tie just like the men. That night inner peace was obtained, and happiness I can’t explain. Whether or not this was the reaction of those also at the gala was the least of my worries. Kendall (2011) stated “Deviance promotes

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