It’s that special type of year again, when all men can cut loose and release their inner lumberjack to the outside world. Of course I am talking about no other than No-Shave-November.

This masculine holiday is dedicated to the enjoyment of body hair, as men take a personal vow to not shave until the calendar reaches November. Many men celebrate this great time of year, in which they can celebrate their hairiness, across Millikin’s campus.

Although freshman Edward Pacquer has never participated in the celebration himself, he is looking forward to it as “it’s kind of like a month long holiday where men get to sport a long, beautiful beard.” Fewer words have been better said.

Of course there is no true meaning behind the celebration other than a sense of comradery between men with facial hair. It creates a sort of special brotherly bond when you see a vast array of facial hair, connecting all of those who decided to embrace their more natural side. However, many women feel negatively about the month long event.

“I don’t like it when guys participate in No Shave November, because I don’t like guys who look like cave men,” said one anonymous girl who is against No Shave November, “I do admit some guys look better with facial hair, but to an extent.” Another female, Breeana Miller, elaborated on her views of women participating in No Shave November, to which she explained she is not a fan. “I don’t feel negatively about it at all. I just like being able to touch my legs and think, ‘that’s good.’”

Although most women are not particularly fans of the month long celebration, they are able to join in the fun by not shaving their legs.

No Shave November may be an goofy month long event, in which men who have never been able to grow more than stubble go at it again, or when women decide that they had enough of the discomfort of daily shaving and choose to let their leg’s hair grow out in order to combat the cold November air, but, actually, No Shave November serves a bigger purpose. The month long event is dedicated to spreading awareness to men’s prostate health, giving a reason to the event other than just looking hairy.

Although everyone is invited to participate in the glorious tradition, there are specific rules to follow. On the day before November, participants are required to shave their facial hair, and women who choose to participate are required to shave off their leg hair, allowing a whole new range of hair to grow wildly. Also, for those who are participating, there is absolutely no shaving or trimming of any kind.