The animosity towards skateboarders isn’t a new phenomenon. It’s a sentiment that has been brewing since the early days of the sport, with roots tracing back to the 1970s. While skateboarding has evolved and gained mainstream acceptance, the stigma persists. This article explores the historical events and cultural factors that contributed to the negative perception of skateboarders.
The origins of this dislike can be partially attributed to the actions of early skateboarders. The great California drought of the 1970s saw kids trespassing into private properties to skate empty swimming pools. This rebellious behavior combined with property damage set a precedent and established a negative stereotype. These early incidents and the subsequent association with a rebellious attitude cemented the negative views that some still hold against skateboarders today.
Skateboarders in the 1970s skating an empty pool
Why Skateboarders Face Negative Perceptions
The negative perception of skateboarders is multifaceted. It’s not just about the actions of the past but also about societal interpretations and concerns. Here’s a breakdown of the reasons why some people hold negative views towards skateboarders:
1. The 1970s California Drought and Pool Skating
The California drought of the mid-1970s inadvertently fueled skateboarding’s rise. With swimming pools emptied, innovative skaters saw an opportunity. They trespassed into backyards to skate these now-empty bowls, turning a water shortage into a skateboarding revolution. This is when skateboarding truly gained traction, but it was also the beginning of a negative public perception. This period, while crucial for skateboarding’s development, also introduced the stereotype of rebellious skaters disregarding property rights. The iconic pool shapes from that era continue to inspire skate park designs today, a constant reminder of those early, rebellious days.
2. Mark “Gator” Rogowski’s Damaging Actions
Mark “Gator” Rogowski, a skateboarding icon of the 80s, was immensely talented but became infamous for his violent crime. His actions, widely publicized, further damaged the image of skateboarders. The association of a popular skater with such a horrific act reinforced the negative stereotypes of skateboarders as outlaws and dangerous individuals. This incident, in particular, had a lasting impact, casting a dark shadow over the skateboarding community. It solidified negative perceptions and made it harder for skateboarders to gain acceptance.
3. The Rise of Street Skating and Associated Property Damage
As skateboarding evolved from pools and ramps to the streets, a new set of problems arose. Street skating, while innovative, often involves using public and private property as skate spots. This led to property damage, including grinding on ledges, damaging stairs, and causing general wear and tear to public infrastructure. This damage, costly to repair and unappealing to the eye, naturally generated resentment from the community. The act of using public spaces for personal recreation, sometimes without regard for the resulting damage, contributed to the negative image.
4. The Rebellious Image of Skateboarders
Skateboarding has always had a counter-cultural element. It often clashed with more conservative social norms, and the association with punk rock music, street art, and an anti-establishment attitude didn’t help. While these elements were embraced by skaters as a form of self-expression, it created a divide with the general public. Some still see skateboarders as rebellious or outsiders, perpetuating a stigma that makes people uncomfortable. This perceived rebelliousness has historically put skateboarders at odds with societal norms.
Image of a skateboarder doing a street trick
5. Legal Restrictions and Misconceptions About Skateboarding
For many years, skateboarding was heavily restricted and sometimes banned outright. This was partly due to safety concerns and partly due to negative perceptions of the activity. Early boards lacked modern safety features, and injuries were common. However, this led to the demolition of skateparks and the marginalization of skateboarders. Although skateboarding is not inherently a crime, many public spaces still restrict or ban skateboarding, further fueling the tension between skaters and the public. These restrictions created a sense of being unfairly targeted.
6. Perceived “Mean” Behavior at Skate Parks
Newcomers to skate parks may sometimes perceive the regular skaters as unwelcoming. This is often due to the need to adhere to unwritten rules of skate park etiquette. These rules ensure the safety and flow of the park, and skaters who don’t follow them may be called out. Actions like “snaking” (cutting in line) or disrupting someone’s trick can lead to confrontations. While the intention isn’t always malicious, it can come across as unwelcoming or even elitist to those unfamiliar with the established norms.
7. The Issue of Unattended Children at Skate Parks
Another source of tension at skate parks comes from the presence of unattended children. Parents often treat skate parks as public playgrounds, allowing their kids to run around without supervision. This can be dangerous, both for the children and the skaters attempting tricks. These situations, often ending in arguments, contribute to the perception that skate parks are unsafe and that skaters are inconsiderate. This creates a negative dynamic and reinforces stereotypes.
8. Public Safety Concerns Around Skateboarders
The unpredictable nature of skateboarding and the potential for accidents can cause concern among pedestrians. The noise, speed, and unexpected movements of skateboarders may lead some to feel unsafe, especially when skaters are perceived to lack control. This concern, combined with a lack of understanding of skateboarding, can lead to fear and even hostility. The sound of skateboards on pavement, often associated with groups of skaters, can also be a source of annoyance for nearby residents.
9. The Inevitable Presence of Haters
Lastly, and perhaps most unfortunately, some people simply harbor negative feelings regardless of the situation. They may be resentful, unhappy, or even jealous of the skateboarding lifestyle. Some refuse to see the dedication, skill, and effort it takes to become proficient in the sport. This inherent negativity, often rooted in personal biases, contributes to the continued dislike of skateboarders.
The Positive Side of Skateboarding
Despite these challenges, skateboarding offers a positive experience for many. It fosters community, encourages personal growth, and instills discipline. Many skateboarders are respectful, creative, and thoughtful individuals who share a unique bond. Skaters encourage progress and celebrate each other’s accomplishments, creating a supportive environment. As long as skaters adhere to the unwritten rules and act respectfully, they are generally accepted within the community.
In conclusion, the history of skateboarding is complex and filled with both positive and negative moments. While the perception of skateboarders remains challenging for some, the dedication, creativity, and sense of community remain a driving force within this unique culture. It’s important to remember that stereotypes don’t define individuals, and many skateboarders are passionate and positive contributors to society.
