Albuquerque Schools OK Indian Grad Clothing

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — When Lyle Jojola receives his high school diploma this spring, he will wear a cap and gown at the ceremony just like the rest of the graduating seniors at Rio Grande High.

But thanks to a decision by the Albuquerque school board, he will also be allowed to wear a traditional American Indian shirt, sewn by his grandmother, and moccasins.

“It’s a small victory for the Native American people of the United States,” Jojola said recently after the board voted 4-3 to allow Indians to wear traditional clothing under their graduation gowns.

The rule change applies only to Native American and takes effect this year. In addition to allowing moccasins, the rule will let female students wear dresses that hang below their graduation gowns.

“It’s a good start,” said Conlin Chino, a Valley High School junior. “Even though you may not be able to see it [traditional clothing], it still has significance.”

A school board committee had opposed the change. Some Indian groups had threatened a lawsuit if the rules were not amended.

Opponents said one exception could lead to other groups requesting special graduation clothing. Cecilia Sena, whose two children attend Rio Grande, said allowing traditional Indian dress would divide students.

“If you decide to let the Native Americans change the dress code, I guarantee it will also be challenged by other religious groups,” she said.

The issue surfaced last year when officials rejected a request by Highland High School senior Wynema Chavez to wear a black Indian dress and knee-high moccasins at graduation.