NH Students Rally After Their Prom Dresses Were Criticized Online
PORTSMOUTH, NH (CBS) - Seniors at Portsmouth High School dressed up in their Senior Prom dresses but not for the dance. They wanted to send a message to online bullies who had targeted them. They stood in Downtown Portsmouth carrying signs encouraging acceptance.
A local paper posted an online collage of photos. Mean anonymous comments followed such as: "What happened to dressing elegantly for your prom?" "The white-trashification of America culture continues."
"Just one comment was, 'I am glad these ladies are not my daughters,' I think my parents are proud of me," said student Casey McDevitt. "I feel good. I like this style," McDevitt said of her dress.
"It definitely brought us down seeing all these rude comments online," said student Brooke Matthews.
The rally became more than about prom dresses.
"Our goal is to change the perception of women in our society and the unfair standard we're held to," McDevitt said.
Men and women passing by applauded the young ladies.
"I think they're very tasteful. I don't see why people are complaining," said Arthur Hawkins.
"We love to be individuals and wear what we want," said Trish Melanson.
Tara Hebert teaches at the high school and signed her name to a banner in support.
"The biggest lesson is the girls can stand-up for themselves and speak for themselves," said Hebert.
