TRENTON, NJ – If there was ever a real need for New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to issue an executive order, it shouldn’t be about parental rights, face masks, or banning gas-powered cars.
No, the governor has more pressing matters to address. One is the New Jersey state dance. It’s time he uses that pen for good and officially changes the dance because if he waits for the legislators to do it, it may never happen.
But it needs to happen quickly.
Square dancing originated in 17th-century England and was later brought to America by early settlers. By the 19th century, square dancing had gained immense popularity in rural communities. In 1983, the U.S. Congress declared it the national folk dance. Many states followed suit, including New Jersey, which adopted square dancing as its official state dance in 1983.
That’s probably why, growing up in New Jersey, they made us square dance in high school. It was awkward, it wasn’t fun, and it creeped us all out.
The adoption of square dancing was part of a broader move to preserve American heritage. However, it’s worth noting that square dancing is more popular in states with a strong rural tradition, which doesn’t quite align with New Jersey’s predominantly urban and suburban landscape. Square dancing is rarely, if ever, seen in the state, raising questions about its relevance as the state dance.
Given that square dancing doesn’t resonate with the people of New Jersey, it may be time to consider alternatives. Salsa, for instance, has seen a surge in popularity in the state’s urban centers. Another candidate could be hip-hop, a genre that has grown substantially in New Jersey and has cultural roots in nearby New York. Even the Jersey Shore Fist Pump could be considered a dance familiar to many who frequent the state’s famous shorelines.
If a change is to occur, it should reflect the preferences and cultural influences of New Jersey residents. A public vote could be an ideal way to decide the new state dance. Legislators would also need to pass a bill to make the change official, a process that could bring residents together to celebrate their state’s unique culture.
While square dancing serves as a nod to American heritage, it doesn’t align with the cultural reality of New Jersey. It’s time to reconsider this symbol and adopt a state dance that truly represents the people of the Garden State.