My youngest stepson Eric is a redhead, and a rather handsome one at that. When I first met him five years ago, it was something that set him apart, and when you’re 12, you definitely do NOT want to be different. Now, his red hair has become a badge of honor and something that he is justifiably proud of. Chicks dig redheads, no??
Now there is a place where redheads can celebrate what they have in common:
PRINCETON, New Jersey — From Elizabeth I to Robert Redford, redheads have stood out throughout history because of their distinctive fiery manes. Now, students at Princeton University have joined forces to discuss and celebrate their unique experiences of having red hair.
The newly formed Princeton Redheads Society, which obtained official recognition and funding from the university, has begun to bring together red-haired students in meetings and parties centered around the theme of “the redhead experience.”
Founded by red-haired Princetonians Ann Glotzbach and Doug Rosenthal, the group meets in a red-painted room munching on red snacks such as Twizzlers and sipping cranberry juice.
Members plan redhead-oriented events, honor red-haired faculty members with sunscreen awards, and discuss the many implications of living with red hair.
“It brings together people who may never have met otherwise,” said Glotzbach, a senior in the sociology department. “The only thing they have in common is red hair, but that ties them together in such a strong way.”….
Other events will include a Valentine’s Day bash and Eric the Red Day, in celebration of the red-haired Viking who is believed to have colonized Greenland.
For too long now, redheads have been ridiculed and marginalized for their obvious and undeniable difference from the rest of society. The Redheads Society at least provides an opportunity for people to mingle and celebrate with people of a similar genetic proclivity. Of course, it’s also a good excuse to party, and for a college student, that is always a good thing.
The group has also brought red-haired students in contact with a professor equally passionate about the redhead condition.
Princeton English professor Anne Daniel has spent the past four years pondering, researching and writing about the portrayal of redheads in literature, as well as treatment of redheads in different cultures.
Her forthcoming book, “Redheads,” shows that male redheads throughout literary history have been portrayed as powerful and untrustworthy and the red-haired female as devilish and seductive.
Hmm…this idea may work so well that I might just have to look into forming a group for Minnesota refugees with low self-esteem and are prone to migraines. Anyone interested can email me.
