The mother of 11-year-old Sofia said in her post that her daughter came to school with a new hairstyle – neat braids with bright multi-colored elastic bands. According to her, Sofia was happy, as she spent the whole evening choosing the look with her mother.

She felt confident and beautiful, but at school she was immediately called to the teacher. There they said that such a hairstyle “distracts other students” and “does not meet school standards,” the girl’s mother wrote.

The teachers demanded that the girl either remove the elastic bands or do a “stricter” hairstyle.

Sofia’s mother did not remain silent. She turned to social networks, publishing a photo of her daughter with the question:

“Can such a hairstyle be inappropriate? Why does the school have the right to humiliate a child for his individuality?”

The post instantly spread across the Internet, causing a flurry of comments.

— It is simply outrageous that in 2024 children continue to be restricted because of their appearance, — users write.
— Instead of teaching children to accept themselves and others, the school is engaged in dictatorship.

The school principal tried to justify himself, stating that “all students must adhere to a strict dress code so as not to distract attention from the educational process.” However, specific rules regarding hairstyles could not be found in the school charter.

— We care about discipline and equality, — a school representative said. — Sofia’s hairstyle could cause a negative reaction in other children.

Sofia’s story has caused a huge response. Under the hashtags #FreedomofExpression and #SupportSofia, people are posting their photos with bright hairstyles in solidarity with the girl.

“When I was a child, I was also forbidden to wear bright braids. Now I’m an adult, and no one dares dictate to me how to look. Sofia, you are beautiful!”

Lawyers have already become interested in the rights of Sofia’s family. The parents are considering contacting the Department of Education to obtain an official explanation of the school’s position.

Meanwhile, the girl continues to go to school with the same hairstyle, despite pressure from teachers.

• Sofia told me: “Mom, I will not change myself for the sake of other people’s rules. This is my hair, and it makes me happy,” the girl’s mother shares.

This case has become an example of how in modern society, clashes continue between the desire for self-expression and conservative approaches to education.

Society is asking the question: where is the line between discipline and the violation of a child’s right to be themselves? Sofia has become a small symbol of a large movement for freedom of expression, and her story will certainly be the subject of discussion for a long time.