Prosecutor Bans Minors From Public Dances
Public dances face strict age enforcement under state law, citing moral concerns.
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It has come to my attention that a great number of minor children are in the habit of attending the public dances held throughout the county. From my experience with juveniles, I am convinced that the environment and influence of public dances are injurious to the morals of young children. Those parties in the county having charge of or giving public dances will therefore take notice that no minor under the age of 18 years will be permitted to enter or attend any public dances. This is in accordance with the State law and will be strictly enforced by the sheriff’s office and all persons permitting any such minors to attend said dances will be criminally prosecuted. - George O. Beardsley, Prosecuting Attorney, Benton County, Wash.
“I am convinced that the environment and influence of public dances are injurious to the morals of young children.”
Concerns over 'youth environments' and moral regulation reflect the long-standing tension between rural social life and civic control. While the language of 'moral injury' sounds archaic, it mirrors modern debates about regulating digital and physical spaces for teenagers.
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