Good Manners Surrounding Hats

If you have ever been a student in one of my classes at Prince Georges Community College, you have probably heard me ask the young men to remove their hats while sitting in my classroom. Believe me, I realize that I am old school. When I ask young men in my class to remove their hats, I explain to them that I understand that hats are now a fashion statement, but hats were originally designed to warm and protect a head. I close with the fact that many consider consider men removing their hat when they enter a room a sign of respect and proper hat etiquette. (And, it shows you were “raised right.”)

Where Should Men Consider Removing Their Hats

My classroom isn’t the only place where men should consider removing their hats! Here are some other locations:

You Should Remove Your Hat In Someone’s Home

This is especially proper if it is the home of one of your loved ones and elders.  When you arrive, place your hat on the coat rack, in the coat closet, or in a chair that isn’t being used.

You Should Remove Your Hat Inside a Public Building

This includes restaurants, schools, offices, church, and government buildings.  Place your hat in the seat next to you.

You Should Remove Your Hat During a Prayer

A man is expected to remove his hat when he is participating in a prayer.  Simply remove and hold onto your hat until the prayer is over.

You Should Remove Your Hat At a Funeral

A man is expected to remove his hat when he enters a place of worship or a funeral home to pay his respects for the recently departed and the mourning.

You Should Remove Your Hat During the Performance of the “National Anthem”

A man is expected to remove and hold onto his hat until the anthem performance is complete.

The only exception is when a man must keep on his headpiece or hat for religious or health reasons.

And, LL Cool J Wouldn’t Get a Pass

Oh, and don’t throw “LL Cool J” in my face. I still love him (so much), but I would ask him to remove his hat if he were in my classroom too. (smile)

Love and Soul Always, Kawania

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