Halloween is right around the corner! Finally, it’s time for candy, horror movies, carving pumpkins and cultural appropriation? When picking costumes, there is a fine line between wearing a costume and appropriating someone else’s culture. As a friendly reminder for the upcoming holiday, culture is NOT a costume.
So what exactly is cultural appropriation? Cultural appropriation is the inappropriate and offensive adoption of elements of another culture or identity that will result in perpetuating stereotypes, generalizations and racist ideals. There’s a tremendous difference between respecting a culture and appropriating it. Context and intent is important in deciding whether or not something is offensive. For Halloween, it is imperative to stay informed and be mindful of how others around you may feel.
Halloween might seem like a minefield of offensive costumes, but in reality being inoffensive is easy. If you can’t decide if something is appropriate, then wear something else! Now here’s a gentle reminder of costumes that we should all avoid this year (but are still being sold in mainstream Halloween Costume stores!).
A “Gypsy”: https://www.spirithalloween.com/product/adult-gypsy-costume/149570.uts
The word “Gypsy” is actually a derogatory and racist term that has been used to discriminate against Romani people, an ethnic group that faced persecution in Europe, such as enslavement, enforced assimilation, expulsion, internment and mass killings. By dressing up this way, we are marginalizing Romani people and their suffering.
ANYTHING that has to do with black face:
Does this one need to be explained? Historically, black face has been used by non-Black performers to characterize a Black person. This racist practice has been used to harass and perpetuate stereotypes about Black people. Doing black face – even as a joke or just for Halloween – is incredibly racist and insensitive. A definite no.
Cleopatra: https://www.spirithalloween.com/product/adult-sexy-cleopatra-costume-playboy/177644.uts
This costume is definitely an avoid. Cleopatra was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. Cleopatra was a powerful leader, heavily influenced the politics of Rome in her time and made Egypt much wealthier. Cleopatra’s beauty is not what made her attractive; it was always her power, wit and intelligence. Portraying her in this way takes attention away from her tremendous accomplishments. I would keep searching for a new costume.
ANYTHING that has to do with the Day of the Dead: https://www.spirithalloween.com/product/halloween-costumes/costume-themes/day-of-the-dead/adult-day-of-the-dead-dress-costume/pc/4742/c/4833/sc/4791/96986.uts
Halloween and the Day of the Dead are NOT the same! The Day of the Dead is to honor friends and family who’ve passed away. Sugar skulls or Calaveras are an essential symbol of this holiday, not a goofy costume for people to wear. Clearly, this costume is a no from me.
These are just a few examples of costumes to avoid this year. Dressing up in different costumes is always a lot of fun, so don’t ruin the fun for someone else by being insensitive. When planning your outfit, it’s easy to have fun without hurting someone else. Be mindful this holiday season, and make sure you incorporate a mask into your costume! Happy Halloween!