By Will Amari
Staff Writer
November is known for cooler days, shorter school weeks, and large leaf piles. Thanksgiving too comes in November and can serve as a national symbol for remembering what we’re thankful for and marks the start of the Holiday Season. However, this November students, teachers, and parents at SLA have something else on their mind, and it isn’t turkey.
Its called “No Shave November” or, “Noshember” as many call it, when guys and gals let their hair grow out all month to show their support for a special cause.
Some people might find this to be a little silly at first, but the concept goes much deeper then rocking the wolf-man. Principle Lehman explains, “It (Noshember) is the raising of money for men’s health.”
Last November, Principle Lehman’s father passed away of prostate cancer. This November Principle Lehman feels like not shaving is a wonderful way to honor him.
The idea of Noshember is not a new trend. In fact, it has been going on for four years straight. On November 2009, The Hill family started this hairy tradition to remember their father who died after an 18-month battle with colon cancer. At that time the Noshember Facebook page had just under 50 participants. Today thousands of people from all over the world have joined the Noshember team, and they are not afraid to show their support with their bearded faces or fuzzy legs.
The Noshember Foundation has raised over 170 million dollars worldwide. The United States alone raised over $7.5 million for cancer charities.
Principle Lehman believes that more people will do it next year and that eventually it will become a tradition. He thinks that more students would’ve joined if they were able to grow beards. “For me this was an attempt to raise awareness and raise a little money for issues of men’s health.”
Junior Richard Yoeun feels rather passionate about No Shave November, but he’s not doing it for cancer. “It is a tradition that usually runs in my family.” Yoeun explains. “I want to see how long I can grow my beard out within the course of one month.” When Yoeun was asked what one could get out of growing a beard he stated, “The sense of pride, dignity, warmth for my chin and a good look of manhood.”
It just goes to show you the importance of beard-growing and the many things it represents. To some it is a way to express their feelings for fallen love ones. To others it’s a symbol of manhood. In the end it all goes to a good cause. Even if that cause is masculinity.
Leave a Reply