Joseph Pughsley – Gregg L. Greer's Apolitical America

Over the past several years in America-we have experienced a trend that has become the rule rather than the exception. That trend is “saggin’ of the pants. The practice here leaves many people in communities around the country-mind blogged, amazed, or even outraged as to why would anyone want to show something that should be reserved and private.

While the current fad is for many mostly young men to put on a pair of jeans and upon putting the pair on, they immediately pull the pants down over the course of various degrees-exposing their buttocks. Many are wondering why do they do this? Well, lets examine this question closely.

History of “Saggin”

The most disturbing myth of the origin of saggy pants also comes from the prison system, and raises even more serious questions about why you’d want to emulate this trend. Ironically, Sagging was said to be a PSA or publicity seeking announcement-in prison for sagging pants as a symbol that the sagger was sexually available to other prisoners, or alternatively, already taken by another inmate. While several sources claim this to be true, others (like Snopes) tells us this is just a nasty rumor. (see example below) Hmmm

The trend spread in the nineties up to today’s culture when many hop hop artist wore the style of sagging pants. This trend attracting many young men may also be as simple as a rebellion, claims another source. The stereotypical “nerd” wears his pants very high, sagging is the exact opposite. (see, picture below)

Little Wayne-Multi-platinum MC from New Orleans, known for his free-flowing rhymes and unique delivery while sagging.

What are the social ramifications of Sagging

Looking ridiculous (though inevitable) is not the only risk of sagging pants, it is linked to erectile dysfunction, hip problems, and lower back issues. In addition-Many believe the sagging pant has caused hundreds of young men to enter into juvenile delinquency. A recent study by the Rand Corporation says, juvenile delicacy starts with negative public behaviors (with sagging-this article is not directly mention this issue) and go’s much deeper into possible criminal behavior. He’s a statement from the Rand Corporation’s website:

“Juvenile delinquency—negative behaviors of children and teens that may result in crimes or legal action—frequently causes widespread problems in communities. RAND’s research on juvenile delinquency includes populations from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and features studies related to crime and juvenile justice, at-risk populations, violence, bullying, substance abuse prevention and treatment, and adolescent mental health.”

Ultimately the end result of this saga will lead to a road to nowhere for most. The feelings of those in the community who pose this public statement is well understood. We also understand that those who sag are entitled to their own form of “artistic” expression to say the least.

sagging 4 — A Flint Michigan Law that has been enacted prohibits sagging.

Many communities have come out against sagging and have anti-sagging laws in place. Rev. Joseph Pughsley is a community mentor for Freedom First International from Chicago says,-

“I think pants sagging is disgraceful it is not the characteristics of a gentlemen or any one who wants to be a leader, It only represents those who are jailed.”

We would hope that solutions and future results will come to make saggers understand that their social identity must remain social and their private identity should remain “Private.”

Tag: Joseph Pughsley

The Pants Sagging Phenomenon-Is it Faddish, Foolish, or Just Foul?

History of “Saggin”

What are the social ramifications of Sagging

Further Reading:

Like this: