As a former Edward Little High School freshman, certain memories stick about orientation. Such as, Mr. Galway is actually the nicest person in the world. Administrators and teachers truly want you to feel comfortable. And lots of upperclassmen work hard at a program welcoming and supporting new members of the school community.

Seriously though, extra credit to the older students challenged to engage peers with such fascinating material as (don’t bother) looking for your locker and disciplinary actions for tardiness.

Unfortunately, the dress code fashion show that appeared in the Sun Journal strayed from the positive, inclusive goals of orientation (Aug. 30).

Gender is a major, innate aspect of personal identity and may fall outside categories of male and female. It is expressed in diverse and nontraditional ways labeled “weird” or “wrong.”

This often occurs when individuals of one gender identity behave – or wear – what is commonly considered only appropriate for another gender group. This exact, exaggerated case occurred at the ELHS orientation.

Gender identity and expression are sensitive topics, particularly for gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and most intensely transgendered people. There are individuals everywhere – including in that freshman audience and larger EL community – who are negatively impacted when comedy is made from their differences of identity.

I hope EL officials will consider this note from an alum – even one who is clearly humorless and generally hates fun. You’ll welcome and empower a few more appreciative Eddies.

Mary Martin, Auburn