We, the undersigned Resident Advisors, respectfully request that the current Resident Advisor dress code be reconsidered to better reflect the unique role of RAs as students, community members, and compensated volunteers.

We recognize the importance of professionalism and understand that there are situations where Resident Advisors should present themselves in designated staff or professional attire. However, we believe that requiring a specific standard of professional dress during routine RA responsibilities may unnecessarily restrict student expression, create financial burdens, and limit cultural representation.

We ask that the organization consider the following concerns:

• RA Role: Resident Advisors are compensated volunteers who live within the communities they serve. Our role differs from that of traditional Foundation employees, and our policies should reflect the unique student-centered nature of the position.
• Student Connection: RAs serve as peers, mentors, and approachable members of the residential community. Allowing RAs to maintain their student identity through appropriate everyday clothing can help residents view RAs as relatable members of their community.
• Cultural Expression: Professionalism should allow room for cultural and Indigenous clothing and other forms of personal expression. Clothing that differs from traditional Western concepts of professional attire should not automatically be considered unprofessional.
• Financial Impact: Requiring RAs to obtain additional professional clothing may create an unnecessary financial burden for college students with varying financial circumstances.
• Living and Working Environment: Because RAs live in the same communities where they perform their responsibilities, applying workplace-style dress expectations during routine RA responsibilities can create additional pressure within what is also our home environment.
• Organizational Values: We believe the dress code should align with the organization's values of inclusivity, integrity, respect, and teamwork, as well as Cal Poly Pomona's commitment to inclusivity.

Proposed Alternative

We respectfully propose that RAs be permitted to wear their own clothing during routine responsibilities, provided that it is clean, appropriate, safe, and respectful.

Designated professional or staff attire could instead be required for situations where a unified professional appearance is particularly important, including:

• Move-in
• Programs
• Major events

This approach would maintain appropriate standards of professionalism while providing RAs with greater flexibility, cultural expression, and financial accessibility.

By signing below, we express our support for reviewing and revising the current RA dress code and encourage leadership to engage Resident Advisors in developing a policy that balances organizational representation with the realities and needs of student staff.

We respectfully ask leadership to hear the concerns of Resident Advisors and consider a more flexible and inclusive approach to dress expectations.