A DJ blasted pop music in the quad, an indie band performed live in colorful attire by the theater, volunteers passed around silent disco headphones next to the gym, and students milled about. It was a beautiful, clear night, and everyone wore stunning outfits they must have spent days planning. But there was one problem. Nobody was dancing.

That was last year’s Homecoming dance. As a COVID-19 sophomore, brand-new to Westview’s student culture, I was shocked to be greeted with lackluster energy as I entered our decorated campus in my shiny dress and heels. Kids hung out in groups, talking, listening to the music, and maybe—just maybe—stepping side to side, but definitely not dancing.

I was disappointed, to say the least. I wasn’t exactly expecting Disney Channel-esque slow dancing or an insanely hype rager, but I had been hoping for more of a lively, fun atmosphere, for sure. Instead, people seemed to be self-consciously eyeing each other and standing around like a dry comedy sketch.

Oh, and don’t get me started on the mosh pit. Last year, everyone got together in a tight, sweaty circle to scream and jump up and down. It was hot and loud and there was a high chance you’d get trampled and stepped on. Okay, it was fun if you were energetic enough (although I know many students who recalled not enjoying the mosh). I’ll even admit, the handful of people who ventured into the center of the pit and freestyled did actually dance, although they were some of the only people doing so the whole night. But why were they the exception, rather than the norm?

Dancing shouldn’t be such a rare or novel event at a dance. It should be something we all participate in naturally, and maybe even include more than just jumping up and down.

I know that a big reason most of us don’t dance is because we’re afraid of being judged. Social anxiety is a very real issue, but one of the best ways to combat it is to push yourself to step out of your comfort zone. According to WebMD, “[exercise such as dance] provides a way to escape repetitive negative thoughts and worries.”

Plus, if a few more confident people step up and dance, it would encourage more reserved people to do so as well. Dancing could help us all loosen up, even if it’s just to laugh at ourselves and our friends. We can have a better time if we try not to take ourselves too seriously.

For those who already dance at our school dances, I want to extend my extreme gratitude to everyone. You’re awesome. The point of Homecoming is to have fun and let loose, and you guys get it. Don’t stop—our school spirit is enhanced by your enthusiasm.

To everyone else, here is my request: please dance this Homecoming. By all means, it doesn’t have to be good. I don’t really care if you’re a seasoned professional or more of a headless chicken awkwardly jerking around (the second would certainly be interesting to witness).

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be another teenage cliché awkwardly standing about and worrying if people are judging me. I want to have fun—and that’s what these dances should be all about.