Protip: Leave the synthetic afros at home.
Halloween, celebrated by 172 million Americans annually, is definitely going to look different this year. Some cities are banning or postponing the holiday altogether, while others are planning socially distanced trunk or treats and other COVID-cautious festivities.
No matter how you’re celebrating, there’s something even scarier than the things that go bump in the night… cultural appropriation. Of course, no one is an expert on all cultures, but if you’re looking to do a fun costume, without inciting offense, then this is the list for you. Here are some ways to go all out this Halloween without going all-in on another culture.
- Avoid Cultural Stereotypes: A cultural stereotype is a negative, widely believed but often untrue idea about a specific culture. For example, “Sexy Asian Ninja”, “Black Gangsta” etc. These costumes can be harmful to those around you and make other celebrants feel unwelcome and unsafe at even the most socially distanced events.
- Don’t Use Cultural Regalia as Costumes: This includes things like “shironuri” (the white paint used by Geishas), Native American Headdress and cultural face paint like Mexican Dia de Los Muertos Calaveras (sugar skulls). But don’t fright! There are still ways to do similar costumes with complete cultural awareness. Swapping out a sugar skull for a traditional skeleton with glitter adornments is an easy and fun fix.
- Unless You’re Going Green or Purple… Stay Away From Skin Altering: Come on guys, it’s 2020. Blackface, Yellowface, and Redface have a history of bigotry, the world over. This offensive makeup was (and sometimes still is) used to mock those who actually have the skin colors participants were trying to imitate. Stage actors that participated in these forms of bigotry often reinforced negative stereotypes about the group they were dressed as. Painting over our natural tones to “become” an Asian, Black or Indigenous character is hurtful and insensitive.
- Try Tapping Into Your Own Culture!: Regardless of who you are and where you’re from, everyone has culture! Tapping into your own roots for a fun and personal costume can be a great way to celebrate Halloween and show your colors.
This Halloween is sure to be one like no other, but no matter what you’re doing this Halloween, make sure to stay on the safe side by being socially distanced and culturally aware!