Archbishop Ryan students start petition over prom dress code

NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Students at Archbishop Ryan high school in Northeast Philadelphia high have started a petition over the school's prom dress code.

Archbishop Ryan provided photos of several examples of what not to wear to the big dance, saying if someone shows up in any similar dresses, they will be turned away and not given a refund.

Students are calling the rules sexist and degrading. They too have started a change.org petition that now has close to 700 signatures.

Archbishop Ryan's handbook also includes pics of dresses that do make the cut.

They include nothing low cut, no see through fabrics and add that slits are included in the length.

Students have to submit a photo of the front and back of their dress before they can buy tickets.

The dress code also applies to the dates of male students.

The Archdiocese released a statement saying the policy is not new and that it feels like it's giving students enough time to prepare. The Archdiocese adds that the goal is to ensure modesty.

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