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September 2nd, 2010
04:05 PM ET
Schools ban 'boobies' bracelets
[cnn-video url="http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2010/08/31/breast.cancer.bracelet.kxtv"%5D
Move it, Silly Bandz. There's another rubber bracelet getting students into trouble at schools. Middle and high school students in South Dakota and central and northern California have been facing possible suspension and have had to remove their controversial bracelets that read “I heart boobies."In Rocklin, California, a high school sophomore could be suspended after he refused to hand over a black bracelet with the bosom-embracing slogan, according to CNN affiliate KXTV. The 15-year-old said he wore the black bracelet because his grandmother died from breast cancer. He told the station that he owns various bracelets as a show of support– including the well-known yellow Livestrong bracelet and the pink survivor bracelet from Susan G. Komen For the Cure. Another school district in California does not allow students to wear the bracelets in class because its dress code specifically prohibits 'sexually suggestive language or images.' "That is why jewelry with sexually suggestive language like 'boobies' is not allowed on our campuses,” wrote Kelly Avants, the director of communications at the Clovis Unified School District. “Please understand that the issue is related specifically to the choice of language on these bracelets and the fact that it specifically violates our existing dress code policy.” The school district supports worthy causes like breast cancer awareness in different activities such as T-shirt sales and volleyball matches, Avants added. Students wearing the bracelets have been asked to remove them until the end of the school day. The schools in California are not the only ones asking students to leave the rubber bracelets at home. USA Today reported on a similar controversy in schools in South Dakota. “We understand that some people find ‘I love boobies’ offensive,” said Kimmy McAtee, the spokeswoman for the Keep A Breast Foundation, the non-profit that makes the school contraband. “Many others find it refreshing in the sea of pink ribbons. We’re really taking a positive style of communication and taking something scary and taboo, and making it positive and upbeat.” Keep A Breast has sold more than 2 million bracelets, she said. The bracelets proclaiming love for breasts began five years ago and started becoming controversial in February as kids started wearing them to school. The buzz died down during the summer and picked back up when school started, McAtee said. “Tell kids they’re not allowed to wear something, they’ll buy five of them,” she said. The slang doesn’t offend Donna Charpied, a two-time breast cancer survivor who had a double mastectomy in 2006. “I think everybody loves boobies,” Charpied, of Manorville, New York, said. “If the end result is a positive thing for the cause, that’s a good thing. I don’t find it offensive at all.” Read more about Charpied. The bracelets are meant to reach youth. “We feel the best ways to prevent cancer is to start young and to educate them at that age when they’re developing breasts and starting to learn about bodies,” McAtee said. Tweens challenged by grown-up malady: Breast cancer Surely some of the kids are wearing the bracelets to get a giggle, instead of spreading breast cancer awareness, McAtee conceded. "If it gets the conversation started, we’ve done our part,” she said.
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these bracelets aren't for sexual herrasment so everyone needs to stop being so protective and support breast cancer
I agree with Adam & Gabrielle.Shelly, who cares if a bracelet says that? Noone. If someone really cares they must be pretty immature. They are supporting a good cause so deal with it.
This is not about freedom of expression or even just supporting breast cancer. I fully support breast cancer awareness and causes. I personally purchased numerous "Save the Tatas" t-shirts. However, that does not make them appropriate for school. What people wear in their free time is their business, however, in a educational setting "I heart Boobies" is not appropriate. You can say that they are supporting breast cancer, but let's face it, there is the double meaning (which is why it's so catchy).
I agree with you, Tracy. There's no reason kids need to wear these bracelets to school. They don't achieve anything substantive; they're just a way to draw attention to the person wearing them-not to draw attention to breast cancer.
So to "support" testicular cancer, I'm going to wear an anklet that says "I heart Ball Butter"
School kids hace been antagonizing school officials forever! With us it was the length of our hair. Very funny! Class of '65
I support breast cancer research. In my opinion though I believe that school is correct with their action. I'm not saying their action HAS to be suspension, but they are correct by saying that he should find another way to show his support of breast cancer research. Just because a cause is good, it doesn't mean that every way to support that cause is acceptable in every venue. There is a time and place to be sarcastic, cheeky, etc. I love the "save the tattaas" t-shirt but I wouldn't be comfortable with a child wearing it, not even a high school teenager. Just because in a way the phrase is sexually suggestive, etc. And the word "boobies" is also sexually suggestive as well. Well actually the whole phrase is "i love boobies".
I don't want to cast judgement on the kid because he seems like a good kid. But i think this is the wrong battle to fight.
Though it is important to make people aware of causes, it is also important to show them how to express their support for a cause in appropriate forms according to the place and time. And considering that people are not facing political, social, or economical oppression by the government for their support for breast cancer research in the USoA, I think the kid should be open to hearing the school out. Showing your support is important, but the way you show it impacts how effective your message will be amoung the crowd.
I mean even if a kid was to wear a shirt like "I am saving myself for marriage" to school I don't think that would be appropriate for school either. Sure it's a good a message but it's not the most tasteful way to express such an intention.
Only in America do we have to get flustered over the topic of breast cancer. For God's sake, it's a disease. Can we not even discuss it without thinking about sex? Are people actually AROUSED by the word "boobies," even in the context of discussing freaking CANCER? Boy, the Puritans who first settled this joint really did a number on our culture, didn't they?
School administrators have to maintain a business-like environment in the schools. They have to stop people from bringing in items that cause giggles or are highly controversial. With a large number of kids to coral, I can understand their actions.
What if some kid came in wearing a sheets on his head like the Klan? He may not be IN the Klan, but his costume would cause controversy and detract from the business of LEARNING.
What if another kid comes in with his pants real big ("Pants on the Ground").
DISTRACTIONS!!!!!
While comical, this campaign was not well thought out. Definitely not for a school environment where the statement can be misunderstood so I agree with the school..........
I know a lot of people like to involve the breasts when having sex, but their initial purpose for the body is to feed breast milk to an infant. I think it's silly to only think of breasts in terms of sex... And the kids are wearing these in support of breast cancer. Why make wearing these bracelets a dirty awful thing? Celebrate breasts and don't be ashamed!!
It DOES matter what goes on the bracelet! Let this slide and soon other inappropriate messages and all that does is continue to contribute to the breakdown of society's morals. Like the other person said...just because you can doesn't mean you should.
Why doesn't he wear a bracelet saying "I love my grandmother" ??
so what is appropriate attire for school? low cut tank tops and mini skirts? mindless shirts that bolster wholesome messages like " get lei'ed island style" and "my boyfriend is hotter than yours?" a bracelet should be the least of a schools problems.
In my opinion (I have teenagers), the kids are wearing these bracelets because the find the phrase "I love Boobies" amusing (and truthful with their raging hormones).....however, most kids are using the reason of "supporting breast cancer research" as a legit excuse to be allowed to wear them. REALLY, how many young teens even CARE about breast cancer....it's all about what they can get away with and how much controversy they can stir up with the adults....then they just like to sit back and enjoy the drama they've created.
I agree, lighten up people!
who cares, its a bracelet........
Sure, there's no reason to say 'I love boobies', but there's also no reason not to say 'I love boobies'. Grow up and quit giggling and squirming when someone says 'boobies'. High school kids are big enough to have them and big enough to deal with the words for them, whether it's boobies, breasts, mammaries, tatas, etc.
This is ridiculous. People who are offended by these should never go to a 3 Day Walk for breast cancer. You see all kinds of representations of breasts on hats and such and save the boobies signs. Oh my, how can they have fake breasts everywhere, it'll disturb the children. Get over yourselves. Stop associating breasts with sex only. Best food source in the world for babies. That's why they are there folks.
I 100% support anything that brings awareness to breast cancer. My mom had it and has been cancer free for 10 years now. Boobies is almost a comical term for breasts in its child like nature. There are far more important things to get all up at arms about in the schools. God help us if they ever come out with prostate awareness bracelets, I like erections (not to make lite of prostate cancer)
Couldn't agree more 🙂
@PJ: How old are you dude? Are you even intelligent? If you are a grown man and the thought of sex don't come out when you see breasts then either you are gay (no pun or sarcasm, if you don't get aroused by boobs then you have to be gay or sexually disfunctional). LMAO at what people come up with thinking they are intelligent. .....
The schools have a right to remove this material and they are right in doing so. This is for a good cause but some kids lack the maturity and the true understanding of what these bracelets represent. If you think "I love b-lls" for testicular cancer or "I love -ss" for colon cancer, "I love p-ssy for cervical cancer" is appropriate for kids to wear then in my opinion you can let your kids wear these bracelets, I weep for them though, America is becoming show shallow.
Breasts are arousing. The terms shouldn't be, if you're mature.
Cause gosh... wearing a bracelet really accomplishes something...
yeah cuz the kid usually went up to his grandmother when she was sick and told her that he "loved her boobies". see how rude that sounds??? kids r just doin it cuz they in that pre pubexent rebell bs that white kids go through
@Jason: "Breasts are arousing. The terms shouldn't be, if you're mature."
Good point, "Bomb" is dangerous, the term is not, why would you run out of a building when someone screams "bomb"
Seriously......Boobies...and you are making a stink on if its appropriate or not in a school? It is to build awareness of breast cancer for god sake. My guess is that the people who have a problem have nobody in their lives that has been affected by this disease and are probably all over the age of 50 and freak out if a girls skirt is above the knees. Get a life. I think SUNG put it very well.
So if a bracelet that says, "I heart Boobies" (yes, my husband and I both own one) is distracting, offensive to some, and not appropriate...then what about bracelets that say "WWJD?" I am a Christian but come on – those bracelets can be just as distracting, offensive, and inappropriate as bracelets that talk about BOOBIES....
Come on people – grow up and lighten up. I can understand elementary school and even middle school – but high school? Really?
I have 2 on my desk, taken from kids. They can have them back if their parents will write a letter stating simpily:
"My child can have their I Love Boobies bracelet back."
Haven't gotten it yet. The parents may not know about these bracelets, and the students wear them just to cause a stir. If I were to ask them what a mammogram is, they'd likely give me the 'huh?' look.
While supporting breast cancer is a worthy and important cause, I HIGHLY doubt that is the TRUE reason this boy wears this bracelet. And the reason that I I like having big breasts is because the space in between keeps my seatbelt comfortably off of my neck and collarbone. But, you keep telling yourself whatever it takes to make you feel better about it.
People have a misconception of our 1st Ammendment of Freedom of Speech. FOS comes with responsibility. That responsibility is not to infringe on the rights of others, who in this case may find "boobies" offensive. The principle is right. I feel the cause is a good cause, there is no doubt in my mind, but why is there such a scream when compliance to protect others' rights are violated. I'm sure this person could continue on with his life without wearing this braclet for a few hours.
hey at least it doesn't say "titties"
I just want to reiterate some important points that others pointed out earlier in the change: These bracelets bring attention to the person – not the disease and I would bet all of the money in my account that the pure motivation behind these bracelets was to test the administration and rebel against the school. When worn appropriately (outside of school, work, or other professional environments) they are important and honorable attire.
Maybe I should get this bracelet, wear it to work and say that my husband's counsin's best friend's dog's previous owner had breast cancer and I could be justified for wearing it. Pffffft!!
I heart tittays!
I heart jugs!
I heart giant cans!
I heart pink areolas!
I heart long brown nipples!
I do not heart old sagging chest sadness!
I heart titty cancer research!
its not about the words, its about the intentions, right?
The school systems argues that the word "boobies" have a sexual connotation but something that said I heart biceps could also fall under that connotation in the sense that "boobies" and biceps can be construed as sexually explicit. However, neither of which actually serve a sexual purpose, other than arousal. Iif they're are basing their argument off of "boobies" have sexual connotation then they will have a lot more to discuss in terms of dress code. What about girls wearing the word "pink" on their butt? or having unnecessary cleavage? Isn't it all unnecessary? Do the public school systems have a code against your boxers or thong showing? Do they suspend people for that? I think they disrupting an issue that that does has a sexual connotation but serves a greater good. So, why not let them do it? Were bombarded by adds, magazines and late night television that inject thoughts of indecency on a daily basis. Is this really grounds for suspending someone with a wrist band? People, please take a step back and look at the whole argument. The bracelets stand out, yes. They're engineered get peoples attention. How? They are sexually suggestive but so are other things [as mentioned]. I think the California school systems needs to redefine what constitutes suspension due to sexually suggestive or offensive language.
Only in America is this such an issue.
Grow up and stop making our kids live in a bubble, that is why they have so many issues with life in general...
The Soccer Mom's (and Dad's) of America are going to kill this country. They are one of the top reasons why our children are growing up so narrow minded and weak... And why the rest of the world thinks we are idiot's.
This is America. the Right to express yourself does NOT get thrown out when you enter a school.
this may have a double meaning, but its time to be an adult and not let the word boobies get your panties in a bunch.
it makes me want to go and buy 1000 of them and give them to the kids in that school.
stupid people are stupid, cant be changed. this young man has the right to wear it and he is even doing it for a good cause.
schools now days are so dumb, i mean seriously? banning bracelets that say "boobies" that support breast cancer? what are they thinking that they're going to go out and have sex? give kids more credit goodness. and this part in the article is true "“Tell kids they’re not allowed to wear something, they’ll buy five of them"- i say the kids should come together and go out and buy some more and wear them, the whole student body! they can't suspend the whole school right? NOW I WANT ONE!
Why cant school systems just concentrate on educating the youth and not suspend them for their beliefs. California schools are broke but they still find ways to cause money to be wasted on stuff like this whe it hurts no one! I would never discourage my daughter from displaying a bracelet for something that ills so many women. If this goes to court the school district will lose and the over burdoned public will be ased to pay it
I have three teenagers and a few nephews in the I LOVE BOOBIES age range. I think it's awesome that the money spent on such a raging trend is going toward breast cancer. When something is this hot with the kids, it will sell. On the other hand...maybe they bought them to support breast cancer, but they are wearing them because it's funny and everyone else is wearing them. Let the money roll in for a great cause. It will eventually wear off and be so, last week. They don't need to be wearing them in school though. Kids like to shock and cause drama and this is another way to do it. Like I said, I have three teenagers.
@Sheri
I lost all my grandparents to diseases. The one grandparent I DID get to meet died from breast cancer when I was young. I am no longer a teenager but you are DEAD wrong to say that teenagers don't care about the meaning and that it's all about the sexuality and pushing the limits of adults. I had a livestrong bracelet when I was in high school because of the meaning. If I had one of these back then I would have worn it also. Loosing someone you love to cancer is very hard and I find it insulting that there are people accusing some of these kids intentions. Sure maybe some are wearing them because of other reasons but these bracelets serve a better purpose and there are worse things kids these days could be supporting.
Teenagers find the bracelets amusing, and i that's why they've become so popular. Yes, they say "boobies," but at the age of 15, there are much worse and more sexually offensive words that circulate the grade. Okay people, if teenagers find the bracelet fun to wear, and don't care about breast cancer, then SO WHAT?? Guess where the money that they paid for those bracelets is going? It is PAYING FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH. YOU PEOPLE NEED TO LOOK AT THE BIG PICTURE HERE. If you care more about your teenagers innocence than saving lives, then you are the real morons in this situation.
Actually Shelly compare this:
I love Penis's
or
I love Dick's
I love Dick's is what it would say. Get a hold of life and don't be so dramatic.
I myself am a student in high school and this is pointless to get suspended over. Really? supporting breast cancer i mean the bracelet not only says "i heart boobies" but also "keep a breast" which most people fail to mention. so how can that be offensive? i think anyone in highschool or even middle school would be able to understand the meaning behind them. you cant really tell someone they cant support a cancer esspecially if it effects them personally.
I Was suspended for one day for wearing the "I <3 Boobies" Braclet. I was told if i wore it again i would face harsher consiqeunces. I Go to Pennridge North Middle School.
I'm all for raising breast cancer awareness, and it has touched me personally, but I have a problem with these 7 & 8 yr old boys wearing a bracelet "I ♥ BOOBIES. Many words could be on those pink bracelets. If I were to raise money for another real cause testicular cancer, whom a friend has beat, thank god, I wouldn't want to see 8 year old elementary girls walk around with bracelets "I ♥ BALLS"
All this fighting over a bracelet what is the world coming too these days theres plenty of other thing people should worry about these days not something that supports a great cause, My grandmother died from breast cancer and it really offends me when i cannot wear something that reminds me of my late grandmother so for all the schools that dont support this should be ashamed to call themselves people that care about the students well being, so can we please worry about something more important than what a bracelet stands for.
"because its dress code specifically prohibits 'sexually suggestive language or images.' "That is why jewelry with sexually suggestive language like 'boobies' is not allowed on our campuses,” wrote Kelly Avants,"
Do none of the woman that attend this school have breasts? Should they be left at home too for being a sexual image!?. So it's ok to have boobies ...but you just can't have the written word. Are you kidding me!!! You American are moving backwards as a nation
C'mon people-what if they made a bracelet for prostat cancer awareness that said "i love penis's"-really ladies you would be okay with that? That's kindof where this has take it's self out of the realm of support and into the realm of what can we do to stir things up in the world. There are others ways to spread your awareness among youth. Even just changing the colors from pink to black would have done it for most kids. It has nothing to do with old school ways or not-it's just tacky.
Shelly,
The prostate gland isn't a part of the penis, so the word penis wouldn't be used to refer to prostate cancer.
If I wanted to show support for a cure for testicular cancer would it be okay to wear a bracelet that reads, "I love testicles."?
Well, Bill, to be consistent with the use of slang found in the "boobies" bracelets, they would have to say, "I heart balls."
Think that'd be okey dokey with everyone?
What I don't get is why do the kids think it's necessary to wear the bracelets to school? If they really support breast cancer research, they can wear the bracelets everywhere else they go; if the money to purchase the bracelets goes to support research, they've already done that by buying them. Why the urgent need to wear them 24/7?
Do you think private Catholic schools would allow the bracelets? How about Sidwell Friends?
@Sci-nerd ... you're correct. The bracelet should say "I love ejaculations!" Much better!
I kind of agree with that. We are seen as puritanical boneheads in several countries in the world, because we beat everything to death. My son wore his pink bracelet with the I Heart Boobies to his High School and they never had a problem with it. That was a couple of years ago, but as we can see, now someone has decided that's just too much! If we keep going like this pretty soon no one will be able to doing anything, wear anything, watch anything, say anything without fear of offending someone and it becoming a big hairy deal. We are almost there already.
Sweet!
WERD
Well, for testicular cancer we could say:
"COME TOGETHER FOR TESTICULAR CANCER"
C'mon people you can make words do anything...just get the msg: We need to defeat all kinds of cancer and raise awareness in a self centered society...Let's MoveOn, OK? 🙂
So, if I wore a bracelet that said "I heart dick", you are honestly saying that you'd respect me for supporting the prostate cancer awareness movement? Uh-huh...riii-iiiiight. One word for you "free speech" freaks: delusional!
@ kyjenel I thought we established that the prostrate gland isn't the penis or dick....so you need to come up with something else.
I swear, this country is going crazy. So, these kids can not wear t-shirts that support breast cancer but the schools do promote cheerleaders – with their colored panties – doing cartwheels all over the place.
The Dress Code needs to be addressed, showing cleavage among the school staff to our soon to be young men and women is sexual harrasment for sure why aren't principals addressing this in their schools.
Wait! Can't using the word "Sexual" in sexual harassment be suggestive? It's more suggestive that boobies.
I am offended by every word of the English language, BAN THEM or you are hurting my rights
Então por que você escreve seu post em Inglês?
¿Entonces por qué escribes tu post en inglés?
No sabía latín cerdo.
Rock On! Very funny. American's are offended by everything.
Nani?
My daughter has one to support breast cancer awareness and I will absolutely let her wear it to school!
I completely agree. The fact that they even THOUGHT about banning them is beyond reproach. They stand for people supporting breast cancer, not for sexual harassment or any one showing their "boobies....
The problem isn't showing support for breast cancer prevention, its the manner in which its worded. Things like "I like boobies" or "save the hooters" and everything else that comes out are great, but not in a school situation. The school has every right to ban things that are considered lewd or sexually offensive, and they have done so for years. This is much like when schools in the 90's banned the "Big Johnson" T shirts. No one complained back then that guys weren't allowed to wear shirts referencing their reproductive organs.
My kids have them in support of cancer awareness however I can see how some may be offended and others will use it as a reason to cause problems. It's probably best to not wear them to school but wear them outside of school.
There is a time and a place for everything and kids NEED to learn that. Heck, many adults still need to learn that! I'm all for cancer awareness and research, However, what does it say about Americans in general when we have to use lewd wording in an attempt to get the attention of the younger folks on such serious matters? Its' not a matter of "people need to lighten up" it's a matter of just good old fashioned decency (which is extremely rare these days, I know!). We all know that teens are walking bundles of raging hormones and their only interest in purchasing the bracelets is because they can proudly wear the word BOOBIES on their arm....and use "awareness" as an excuse to get away with breaking school policies. What really kills me are the adults here that don't understand what the problem is! REALLY???? Come on! It's time the adults stop thinking like the kids... And what does it say about those promoting these bracelets who know that they are using lewd words to lure dollars out of younger people's pockets, knowing darn well that kids don't give a rats *ss about the cause they are supporting. The bottom line is the DECENCY of America is getting flushed right down the toilet!!! Quit using "causes" as reasons for it.
To Sherri & others.....Yea right on! And while we are at it what about those evil books in that school library. God help us I hear there is a copy of "The Scarlet Letter" in that school library. Oh but wait...there is more..."The Sun Also Rises", I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings", "Brave New World", "The Catcher in The Rye". Kids walking down the school hall openly displaying those books. We all know why they checked those books out...their evil sick little minds ....they are only reading the sections that have sex in them. Here is what we should do....collect those books (I'll make the list of titles, the Bible will be the first to add....God knows there is enough sex in that book ((God knows....get it)). Then we will have a big bon fire...books on bottom, and when the flames get high enough we can throw all those nasty dirty little rubber (oh we didn't think of that did we....they are rubbers!) bracelets on top of the flames. With that, we can start educating the little punks properly. Oh somebody stop me....I could go on and on!
For God's sake, what the heck is wrong with these people? Just how much more official repression and oppression are we going to tolerate just because these troglodytes are afraid of getting sued? Give us back our freedom!
Yeah they do all this because when someone sues the school for pretty much ANYTHING, the complainter (Sorry, I forgot the actual word) wins, and drains money from the school's coffers.
Look at New Jersey, they have the strictest rules because they can't afford to lose any more money.
Im in my 40s now but when I was in jr high school, everyone attended a sexual education class. (I think there may have been a way to opt-out). In this class we learned about reproduction, saw pictures of naked people and even saw a film of a child birth. It is funny to think about this in today's age. Teachers would get fired, lawsuits would be rampant and the kids would need to be in therapy for a few years. This sure doesnt feel like progress.
@ ben dover
that's not true...kids still have sex ed, and do you honestly think diagrams of human anatomy have been banned? AND my entire grade saw the "miracle of life video." in the sixth grade. so yeah...you're wrong.
"...sexually suggestive language like 'boobies' is not allowed on our campuses..." Nothing gets me hotter than when my husband talks all suggestively about my "boobies."
haahaahahahahah.
Seriously though – America is all about being politically correct and not offending anyone. This is kind of ridiculous. I wonder if these kids would be allowed to wear the "Save the Ta-tas" items?
LOL! Truthfully, with the PC crowd, and the "you hurt my feelings" and "you are stepping on my rights" groups, probably wearing a tee-shirt or bracelet that indicated the word "breast" on it would get a response that it was sexually suggestive!
Oh lord. Seriously, "boobies" is a problem? America is so prude.
Yep – thanks religious conservatives
THANK YOU
So at school, if you show this wristband actually supporting a topic,you send them to the office. There are people sagging, short dresses (that's cool), purses, and hats and you're leaving them off with warnings? Pathetic schools.
While I agree that the bracelets are mostly harmless, I completely understand the school district's logic. If they allow the bracelets, they'll have to allow the more douchebaggy types to wear their "Show me your t*ts" T-shirts or risk getting sued.
They would probably even ban a bracelet which says "Gran Prix". I hope someone sees this and makes one for their kids and their friends to wear to school just to see what happens. Or maybe "Pussycat Dolls". Will the schools interpret everything as being sex related? Time will tell.
So if your kids are caught wearing Dickies at school, do they have to remove them, too?
Just all the little tags....
If your kid is caught wearing Dickies at school, he should be picked on. What kid goes to school wearing Dickies? Come on parents, think of your children. If I was that kid, I'd sue my parents for forcing public humiliation upon them.
Dickies are popular in my children's school.
i hope they come out with more colors ! maybe it will be okay if it's part of the uniform color code. Whats next? The kids can't wear socks to school?
What kind of relationship do you have with your socks?
I support the school's actions. The bracelets are tasteless and a shameless ploy to raise funds from teens. The last thing teenagers need are more reasons to think about sex instead of algebra during the school day. Yes – I'm a prude – and I think we need a bit more prudery when it comes to raising our kids.
Kids can't be put in a bubble until they are 18, if that were the case, how would they know right and wrongs for them. How would they learn to stand on their on two feet, this all begins at very early ages. "Boobies" are part of life as well as everything else good or bad, teach your children morals and values and they will be okay. Parts of body that are in trouble are just that. Sex is sex – nothing else nothing more. Teach your children to be good to people respect others and you won't have all the BS that you are trying to hide from your kids. KIDS ARE NOT STUPID.
As the mother of two boys ages 10 & 15, and as a recent breast cancer survivor, I would be proud to have my sons wear a 'boobies' bracelet. It is not just an individual that goes through cancer, but it impacts the entire family. It has only been 2 years since my total mastectomy, and I have 3 1/2 yrs. to go on my cancer medications before I will be considered cancer free. My sons had to grow up fast during a year that saw me fired for having cancer, 7 different surgeries, and no health insurance. The bracelets raise awareness, they are not a ploy or distasteful. They help raise money for Breast Cancer Research, and there is nothing shameful or distasteful in that.
Please tell me you are not a teacher JO. The part of America that gets so easily offended is becoming unbearably offensive.
Jon, please tell me you're not a parent. If so, I hope you show more support for the schools your children attend and don't pass on your lack of respect to them. It's no wonder kids talk back to teachers and principals, aren't held responsible for doing work and attending classes, and think they're entitled to do whatever they want, regardless of its effect on others' ability to learn and to teach.
@ Jo....I don't think the word "boobies" is going to make many kids think of sex ALL day instead of their algebra. It may invoke some giggles, and such, but it's not like the bracelet has a picture of "boobies" to go along with it or a centerfold fold out of "boobies".
I don't get this. Is it the intention of the bandz to support breast cancer research, raise money for breast cancer research? That wasn't clear from the article.
Hooray for ( o Y o ) !!!
That's offensive, I tell 'ya! You should be banned from the internet for life! 🙂
In 1974 I wore to school a Frank Zappa t-shirt with a picture him sitting on a commode and it said "Zappa-Crappa"....nobody said a word to me about it....man have times changed...all these A.H.'s / Do goody-good'ers really need to get a life. I'm 54 now and retired by working my a– off and catchin' a buzz on the way....America...wake up and get all these bungholes out of DC.
What a co-inkydink. I heart boobies too!
im going to hot topic soon to get one
I'm rather surprised that no one has brought up the FACT that "boobies" are a type of bird.
"Boobies are a part of the sulidae family made up of ten species of long-winged sea birds the size of geese."
Exerpt from http://www.galapagosonline.com/nathistory/wildlife/birds/boobies.htm
Just thought I'd throw that out there. Perhaps the students and administrators are no longer aware of facts such as this due to censorship policies?
ok nopenoteven..if boobies are a bird, then since "fags" are cigarettes in Britian what if kids tomorrow show up wearing "stomp out fags" shirts. I am sure the up-roar would be amazing over that. While the bracelets are harmelss, they have become a distraction. By the way I live in Rocklin .
There is no "IF" boobies are birds, they ARE birds! And it's entirely possible, if not probable that online searches or even the link to the informative article I included would be filtered by the default settings on many browsers or search engines provided in schools or even at home.
How would those of you castigating the school for banning the "boobies" bracelets feel about it if kids and teachers in the school start using the word "boobies" in conversations? Would that be okay with you? If it's okay on a bracelet, why not a T-shirt? Do you really think this is appropriate for school? Would your employer allow you to wear this when you meet with customers? If your lawyer shows up in court wearing one, do you think they judge or jury might form a negative opinion about her or him?
I would be absolutely okay if they used the word boobies in conversation. From what I remember of school, school children talking about boobies has been status quo for quite a while. As for your court argument, I don't see the relevance. Court attire and school attire are not the same thing at all. After all, you wouldn't wear a t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers to court, would you?
No. That's exactly the point. This bracelet is no more appropriate for school than it is for business.
If your kid is so hot to support breast cancer research, then she/he can do something constructive. Donate some of his or her allowance to cancer research. Go volunteer at a hospital or a nursing home where cancer patients are being treated. Wearing some bracelet does no more to "support" research than sporting a yellow ribbon on your bumper does anything to "support" the troops.
We had a teacher in high school and all the his friends called him Boob.
I don't understand what the problem is. Why do the care if people express their feelings for a bird from the Galapagos Islands?
The stance of the schools that are banning these bracelets is idiotic. We are sexual beings, and there is a clear difference between displaying a word or image that is connected with sexuality in support of health awareness and using the word or image being vulgar. It's particularly disappointing that the schools in question are ignoring the "teachable moment." They should be helping to organize the student body for fundraising purposes, and educating their young men and women about the risk factors, and how to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer.
Middle and High School students aren't children anymore. They are people who need to learn about being adults, and that means talking about adult issues in an adult manner.
Awhile back a couple girls started a fund raiser selling tshirts that said "save second base" it got the same reaction, all this is too much political correctness
Another example of the worsening stupidity of the American people. Totally nuts. More of the troubling trend of someone equating sexual or body-related actions or wording with crime. Very troubling and sad.
The word boobie is not only for tits, get real. That was a historically famous word to call your blanket also.. It amazes me how ignorantly conservative parts of America are.. I'd never last there..
What happened to "freedom of speech?" Are they going to start burning books? Where does the line get drawn between "Zero Tolerance" and "Censorship"? And why, why are children held to higher standards than the adults that make and enforce the rules?
Freedom of speech still exists, however it doesn't protect you to say whatever you want whenever you want. Much like if you started talking about your coworker's "boobies" around the water fountain. You can say it, but you could also be pulled into a sexual harrassment case. I think its smart that we teach teenagers that there are appropriate and inappropriate times to say anything.
I am so tired of people being offended by everything. Americans, when did we become a bunch of whiny, frightened poopyheads? They should all wear bracelets that say "my school is afraid of words."
We started to become whiny and frightened when parents began to give up taking responsibility for teaching anything to their children at home, or talking to them; when it became everyone else's kids that did things wrong, not their kids; when those said moronic parents began to whine and cry to television, radio and anyone else who would listen about banning things they found offensive from everything; when even non-parents got their little feelings hurt over just about everything, and started pitching fits and being so obnoxious to get attention from government officials to pass laws or from groups like the ACLU how their little sensibilities were just being trampled. We've become a nation of "boobie-babies" (I won't use the other word in case there are some little whiny babies on this blog that the other word would hurt thier tiny feelings)!
And people wonder why the schools have so much trouble. Look at the lack of any respect for education or the efforts of schools to provide some kind of atmosphere that fosters any learning or discipline. It's no wonder there are failing schools-look at the morons who are having kids.
Yes, these are the same parents that would hide the word "boobies" from their children so they really would be shocked to hear or see it! Those are the same parents who don't talk to their children about anything, have never made them take responsibility for anything, and throw a fit about everything. That's why the schools don't want anything that could be construed as offensive to anyone...people nowadays will sue for anything, and they are teaching and have taught their offspring to do the same. We had less rules when I was growing up and going to school about such things, and guess what! We turned out okay, and didn't all become perverts because we heard some sexually suggestive words (we did giggle tho!)....
Yeah, you turned out just great. What a stellar example of education.
Yes, I did turn out pretty good...went on to college, earned a degree, and have contributed to society for the last 33 years! Thanks! And I didn't end up being an uptight wingnut! Sweet! (Oh, with no sense of humor....!)
OK, allow me to play devil's advocate:
What if it were a male teacher in a middle school or high school who decided to wear the "I heart boobies" bracelet at your daughter's school. Would people still consider this to be appropriate or would he be looked at as a pervert or a predator?
What about his first amendment rights? What if his wife or mother was affected by Breast Cancer and he is just simply showing support? An interesting discussion.
I think you have a point. If said teacher can wear the bracelet, then shouldn't his first amendment rights extend to being able to talk about the boobies of the girls in his classes? If a girl is wearing the bracelet, what's to stop boys or adult males in the school from making comments to her about her own boobies?
Is that really the kind of behavior you think is appropriate for school?
My immediate first thought would be that someone close to him; mother, sister, wife, etc. had breast cancer. Innocence should always be first until there is legitimate evidence pointing elsewhere. In fact I would immediately go up to him and ask about his bracelet, since I myself have breast cancer. My husband wears a I heart boobies bracelet everywhere except in the office, which includes church. So does my 15 year old son, and they are both proud of them. The term boobies is about as innocuous as you can get when referring to the breast. It is terms like tata's and titties that offend me, as they sound like you are talking about hookers. We have taught our boys to use correct anatomical terms at home, but because they are easily embarassed, we use the term boobs instead of breasts in public. "Boobies" is not a dirty word, considering the foul language that most of the posters on here use, and that most kids use, that should be the least of anyones worries.
“Please understand that the issue is related specifically to the choice of language on these bracelets and the fact that it specifically violates our existing dress code policy.”
Then change the dress code policy – I'm sure if the bracelets said "I Heart Administrators" that no one would care... even if it was implied that it was a romantic type of "heart" instead of the eTeen definition of it....
Stop trying to get your 15 minutes of CNN fame by calling negative attention to a very worthy cause...
Why bother to have a dress code at all? Why not let the kids go to school naked if they want?
My friend who is a breast cancer survivor is terribly offended by these bracelets. She was fighting for her LIFE not her boobies.
These bracelets sound like they only care about the wearers need to get their pleasure from looking at breasts.
Women just don't lose their breasts but die from this disease. Please show some respect.
I doubt that even crosses the minds of most of the kids who are so concerned about being allowed to wear these bracelets. The real issue is that the bracelets get their wearers attention and a reaction from others, and it has nothing to do with cancer.
I'm glad your friend survived, but she doesn't need the extra stress and worry. I suppose she views the simple Cure Breast Cancer and Stamp out Breast Cancer t-shirts as fixated on the sexual nature of breasts; they should say simply Cure Cancer.
Sure, whatnext, who cares what a real breast cancer survivor feels like? Who does she think she is, anyway, being offended by these bracelets, right? She should just "chill" and suck it up; after all, her feelings don't matter. This is only about some kid's right to free speech-that's what's really important. Not what people with breast cancer actually endure.
MeTarzan, neither the OP nor her friend said anything about the kid who got suspended. The breast cancer survivor is offended by the bracelets in general. Most of your response went well beyond what I said, and contradicted your own earlier post. You originally said what I was typing while you were posting, her worry was needless. Then you sarcastically responded to me, implying her concern was genuine, the kid's right to free speech fight was overshadowing her feelings. Make up your mind.
Guess sarcasm is beyond you.
I was agreeing with Kathy, that some if not most of the kids who wear these bracelets don't care about what the real consequences of breast cancer are. They're just thinking of saving breasts, as though that's what really matters. The breast cancer survivor is offended that for many of these kids, preserving boobs is the extent of their understanding of the disease. I can see why she finds it offensive, and your cavalier response is what I objected to.
I guess a point by point answer is beyond you. And maybe you were being sarcastic to Jim McTeigue and in your two responses to Spinnerette.
What point flew over your noggin?
Kathy – I totally agree! As a women who has worked in oncology for years (breast cancer being one of the disciplines I worked in), and having a mother who is a survivor of breast cancer, I think it's sad and disgusting that a VERY serious disease is being looked at as a bad thing just because it takes away what we as a society find desireable in women – their sexuality. Women (and MEN! Yes, men get breast cancer too) are losing more than their "ta-tas" or "boobies." This cancer metastisizes to lungs, bones, livers, etc, and can result is a painful, drawn out (or short) death. Women have a heard enough time going through mastectomies because they are "losing" what makes them a woman (this is how many women feel), and by promoting items like this, we are reinforcing that.
Woman – you are only sexual objects, so please, do every thing you can to SAVE THE TA-TAS!!
Infuriating...
I'm glad to see the schools allow what will most likely happen – spending big dollars on legal fees over a ridiculous rule.
This doesn't even make sense.
I just hate the word "boobies". Always have. Immature.
The Keep-A-Breast Foundation, which created the bracelets, was formed by women. I imagine they wanted something more casual than breasts, certainly ruled out "tits." Not saying it's the best choice, but at least it was chosen by women.
Honestly I think most kids are wearing these because "everyone else is." You can say "Oh yeah I'm all for breast cancer awareness" all you want, and I'm sure a lot of people are, but I work retail and I can't even begin to describe how many times a day I hear "Y'all got them booby bracelets?"
Half the people don't even know they're advocating breast cancer awareness. I think everyone just wants a bracelet that says "I <3 Boobies" because they think it's funny.
Exactly.
"Boobies" is a questionable term? Really? So's doo-doo head. I might see the point if they said "I love t–ts." If they're worried about kids saying/reading/wearing "boobies," then they're pretty naive about the language the kids are REALLY using. Parents should be so lucky if "boobies" is the worst thing they say or read.
If schools sell it as a sexual term, then it is. If they sell it as a legitimate cause, then it is. Ban the bracelets, and every kid will want them. Openly embrace them, and the cause behind them, and you'll have the true supporters of the cause raising awareness, which is the most important point. My son owes his life to my breasts, and I'll make sure when he's old enough, he understands that.
People get way too offended by what others do or say in this country of free speech. Chill a little bit. If you don't like the language on the bracelet, don't buy them, wear them or let your kids where them. It's a bracelet, not a tee shirt. Why does every one want to fight with someone or take offense at every little thing?
I dont like the tone of your message. I think you are berating us and apology is in order.
Also, I would just like to add that I am not offended by these bracelets in any way at all, more so annoyed by how many people NEED to have them for back to school. Americans ARE too easily offended by everything they see and hear. This isn't the '50's guys, get over it.
It's not that they're offensive. They're inappropriate for school. They're one more in a long line of distractions to learning. There are already plenty of those.
Wish it WAS still the fifties! What was so bad about that. Back then children respected elders and teachers. Crime was lower and life was simpler. I dont think today is so much better than back then. Ihave to say, the children today need to learn a few lessons and i dont blame the schools for trying to enforce dress codes. I have the right to wear a bikini if i want to, not appripriate to wear it to work. Why should we desperately sheild our children from these truths to everyday life? Want the crappy rubber band? great! It has no place in school. Not appropriate, and kids should be taught that lesson.
A few weeks ago, I saw a boy about 10 years old wearing one of these. I thought it was totally inappropriate. Should we have cervical cancer bracelets that say "I <3 Pu$$ies"?
Lets ban Hooters!!
The problem is, what exactly do these bracelets stand for? I'm reasonably certain they don't "support breast cancer", but what do they support? Breast cancer research, the families of breast cancer victims, or breast cancer survivors? And here's the real question: how much of the cost of these bracelets go towards any of these causes?
Again, I'll wager most of the kids who are SO passionate about wearing them couldn't tell you the answer to that question. It's not breast cancer research they're interested in; it's causing yet another distraction.
Who cares? I mean really – if it is making them aware of the issue and starting a generation that cares about others – let em have some fun with it – for JHChrist sake people
I think the guys should wear VERY tight spandex shorts, and girls should do the same sans bra's ... Lets see how it goes over when the whole school is "sexually suggestive" ... They are TEENAGERS... once every 6 seconds the guys are thinking about sex and there isn't a thing they can do about it, these kids have done nothing wrong!!!! Ya bunch of PRUDES!!!
Where do you get the idea that anyone's trying to prevent them from thinking about sex? The school is trying to establish some guidelines that will allow it to function and students to learn without undue and unnecessary distractions.
To read your post and those of some others, one would think we should be providing rooms for them so they can indulge their interest in sex while they're at school. After all, why try to teach them anything? Might as well just give up and let them screw all day.
I have to add my two cents here. I dont think the schools are so much worried about the word "boobies". It is a matter of setting precedent. If they allow students to wear these bracelets, then they open the door for more suggestive slogans, words, images. As one poster said "to be consistent with the use of slang found in the "boobies" bracelets, they would have to say, "I heart balls." " How appropriate would that be? or a bracelet to gain support for STD's saying "Love your dick"? Really, these are kids that love to snicker at the plethora of jokes this would provide them. But how could the schools prevent them if they allow "i heart boobies" to decorate the arms of students. I know everyone tends to get uppity when they are reminded that while we all have rights and freedoms, there are times when it is not appropriate to flaunt them. Kids especially need to learn that places of school, and later in life, work, are places where they must behave in a manner that is not offensive, or even suggestive. It is not that we do not have the right to wear and portray what we like, but that we are supposed to be – as a good and civilized people – more concerned about the rights and freedoms of those we interact with every day, than those of our own. And the parents who scoff at the "prudish schools" and encourage their kids to wear them anyway, are not doing their children any favors. They are teaching their children that people who are to respected such as teachers and principles do not need to be obeyed if we feel they are infringing on our rights in any slight way. In the course of my children's lives, i may not agree with everything their schools put forth, but over such a trivial matter as this, it is a good opportunity to lead by example and encourage my children to be understanding and respectful, not bitter, complaining or defiant.
As a teacher, I support banning anything that takes away from instructional time, whether it is considered offensive or not. Silly bands are banned at my children's school because they were distracting the students from learning. Are they offensive? No. Teachers have so much to teach and so little time to do it in (make your kids do their homework!) that we cannot be supportive of anything that jeopardizes classroom time, even if it is for a good cause. Save it all for after school.
I hate religious people. They are always trying to be controlling and put their morals onto everyone. I LOVE BOOBIES. I like to look at 'em, and rub 'em, and lick 'em, and do all kinds of naughty things to 'em. But I guess religious people don't feel that way.
Joe, If you will run for office, I will vote for you...
you all just need to mind your own business if a kid wants to wear it then thats their choice, it doesn't distract anyone they are sitting on a kids wrist. Some people really need to grow up and move on. if your trying to ban them then you really need to get a life wow you people really disappoint me this world isn't what it used to be.
To Adam....I think you are speaking for yourself. You must be one sick male. Too bad there are so many like you. So a young male teenager is so obsessed with sex according to you that he cannot take something like breast cancer seriously? Lets see...stereotyping like that would make you a.....hmmm....what is the word.....oh yes.....BIGOT.
What is so bad about expressing your-self? I'm a girl and i wear them for breast cancer awarness. And so is he. His grandmother died of breast cancer and he's telling people by wearing that bracelet that he is supporting the cause. There is no problem with that.
If I see a teen age boy earing a black bracelet that says "I Love Boobies" It tells me that he is immature and expressing his hormones. It says nothing about cancer.
But you know what, a portion of that t-shirt sale provided funds for breast cancer research.
This is the huge problem with our society. People are so hypersensitive about ridiculous things. Chill out folks!
I saw a boy at my daughter's school wearing a shirt that read, "Do you miss Bush?" And I thought, my god that's offensive!