Since the early 20th century, the concept of Homecoming Queen and King has existed. But as time has evolved, society has changed as well. Now there are different cultures, norms, and stereotypes. And this raises the question: Has Homecoming, the annual fall dance, also been modified to reflect these changes as well?
I believe that while many traditions of Homecoming should remain old-fashioned and the same as before, since they are what cause the beauty of it, others should be changed to match the current status of 2025. The one I feel is the most important is changing the titles of Homecoming Queen and King to be less gender oriented to support LGBTQ+ individuals from feeling left out. As well as give equal recognition among all sports, not just football, and shift the criteria for Homecoming court from popularity to a wider range, such as best school spirit.
The first Homecoming tradition that I believe should change is changing the names of Homecoming “Queen” and “King” to be supportive of the LGBTQ+. Some people may feel left out and won’t want to be selected for Homecoming King or Queen because they do not fall into a category of a specific gender.
The next thing that I believe should change is that Homecoming should give equal recognition to all sports. I understand that it is the last football game of the season, but it is also the last Cross Country meet for many, the last volleyball game, the last swim, the last dive. It is unfair if only football receives all this recognition when people who play other sports put an equal amount of hard work into their sport.
The final tradition that I believe should change is that the Homecoming election shouldn’t always based on popularity I know that it is not the thing that counts but lets be honest, most of the time kids pick one of their friends, and a lot of the time that could end up being the most popular person in the school. Instead, schools should focus on who has the best school spirit or who contributes to the school in the best way. After all, isn’t that what Homecoming is really about: School spirit and introducing people to the school year in a fun way?
Some people say that the beauty of Homecoming is keeping its old traditions. I completely agree with that; some traditions like spirit week, the dresses, the mums should never be changed, not now, not in a hundred years. However, other things should be modified to suit our current society, especially if it makes people feel left out or if it is unfair. By making these three changes, we can make Homecoming an even better experience that suits more people.
Overall, three Homecoming traditions should be changed: changing the gender status of Homecoming Queen and King, making all sports and activities feel more included and specialized, and changing the Royal Court from being elected based on popularity to school spirit. With the right mindset, I believe that we can make this happen, to make Homecoming an enjoyable experience for all.
