The Dance Jam is amazing show performed by the dance classes at Loyola to showcase all their hard work throughout the year. But, how come when I told my friends I was going to the Dance Jam they replied, “What’s that?”

Sports are glorified at Loyola and are always encouraged to be apart of students lives. It is even included in Loyola’s phrase “RIPLOC” as physically fit. Dancing may be a form of physical activity, but it’s also a form of art to tell a story and be a form of expression.

The Dance Jam is a clear example of how much hard work, dedication and effort is put into the performance. But as a Loyola Academy student, I have noticed a recurring theme: the unhappiness from a large portion of students who believe the fine arts at Loyola are pushed to back and viewed as not as important as sports such as basketball or football.

 I asked a dancer who wishes to remain anonymous and participated in the Dance Jam if she believed Loyola held enough resources for the arts program to be successful. She replied, “I feel that Loyola has enough resources… However, it lacks in effort to broadcast and make it seem important to the community. We are lucky enough to have the costumes we need, the studio space and the teacher support but no one ever hears about it.”

A specific example of when the Dance Jam was not made a priority was during their performances held during lunch. At the same time as the show, the Ramble video was being recorded so many faculty and students were unable to attend.

Loyola may be a very successful sports school, but it is also important to shine a light on the other students with different talents. Loyola strives for equality but that doesn’t just mean among sexes and racism. It is among different talents, abilities and even extra curricular activities.