If Fort Hamilton students last year were asked what they thought of 67, there would likely be little to no reaction. Any combination or sequence of the numbers 6 and 7 in that order wouldn’t elicit anything out of the ordinary. But now, regardless of context, students become increasingly amused by the mere mention of it. Whether it’s referring to question 67 or asking for 6 or 7 volunteers, the arbitrary combination of numbers has become an inside joke among the younger generations that causes as much confusion as it does laughter.
The term 67 originates from a drill song officially released in February of 2025 by rapper Skrilla entitled “Doot Doot (6 7).” The phrase is used as an adlib contrasted against lyrics concerning gang violence, with its inclusion possibly referring to a plethora of explanations, ranging from a street in the city of Philadelphia to police codes. But the origin of the lyric is not what the average Gen Z or Gen Alpha student has in mind when they shout the phrase. It was popularized through edits referring to the heights of popular basketball players, most notably Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball. Its popularity increased among sports fans, and it reached mainstream recognition from a YouTube video that spread across the internet, featuring a young blonde boy screaming 67 into the camera while shaking his fluctuating palms.
There’s no deeper meaning behind the 67 joke; if anything, the joke has become the confusion and disruption it causes to adults who lack the online literacy that would allow them to understand the humor behind it. It is a symptom of Brainrot, a new genre of memes and references that are purposely shallow, nonsensical, and lacking any meaning other than being slightly entertaining for an increasingly online generation.
Fort Hamilton has been the latest to take advantage of the craze with 67 Days Smarter, a school spirit event coinciding with the 67th day of school. Celebrating learning with an online trend may seem contradictory, but it has proved to connect members of the student body and staff members.
Student Organization President Abigail Hom was approached about adapting the viral meme into an event to build school spirit; she presented her plan to Ms. Houlihan and the rest of the student government to a positive reaction. She had been familiar with the trend, but she “didn’t think it was actually going to become a school event.”
As soon as students entered the building, they were met with two large balloons hanging from the welcome desk with the titular numbers. Staff and student government representatives were dressed in colorful shirts with a 67 logo on them. Students were encouraged to wear outfits that corresponded with the day, either by having 67 written on their shirts or dressing up in the school spirit colors.
Between the sixth period and the seventh period, Ms. Houlihan spoke over the announcements, announcing the passing of periods to celebrate the day and encourage students to continue to remain positive and productive. The event was ultimately successful in cultivating an engaging learning environment where students shared in the enjoyment of the day, with many dressing up to participate.
Hom ultimately hopes that students take away positive memories from this school year, with 67 Days Smarter being one of those memories.
“I thought it was a good idea to capture something that a lot of people remember and enjoy,” she said. Despite it being a simple joy, it was yet another opportunity for the staff and students of Fort Hamilton to enjoy the school year.
