At a parade recently, I was perplexed and thought, “How could this be?” Not throwing any shade, but this has to be spoken freely, because little girls were putting on a display for all to see.

The parade made me angry — so many little girls dancing and gyrating. In this year of the #MeToo, how is it that these parents have no clue? Is this really cool with you?

Yep, your daughter can bend and twist in ways that perverted men and women cannot resist. But why cheer on your daughter as depraved minds watch and ponder?

I can’t watch. As I look to the side, I catch the expressions of little girls in the crowd, and I want to shout, “This does not make me proud.” While the parade continues its route, there is no doubt that this is a huge mistake as the crowd encourages young girls to shake.

Today I am sounding the alarm. When parents cosign this behavior, they must also understand the harm and danger of “dropping it” for strangers.

At what point do we realize that #MeToo is more than just Hollywood news? Do we realize that seeking this type of applause does not help the cause? We see it on TV, but at this moment the girls are on stage dancing inappropriately for all to see.

From one parent to another, I do not judge you, but I ask that you consider what you allow your child to do. We are all in this together, working to make our children and the entire world better. Let’s protect all children and keep them safe from strangers who desire to put them in danger.

Children are a beautiful gift from God, and their bodies deserve respect. Teach them to demand respect early and they will never forget.

— Caren Davis Lightfoot

Salisbury