Think About Your Costume Choice Before You Commit To It

Think About Your Costume Choice Before You Commit To It
Posted on 10/22/2021

A note from DEI Coordinator, Dr. Kimberly Martin, about Halloween Costumes:

Halloween is upon us again, and as such it's time to consider our costume choices and know that some may be deemed as an offensive Halloween costume.

Here are some questions to ask before dressing your kids (or yourself) this Halloween:

  • Does the costume make a reference to a culture that is not my own? (a headdress, turban, or kimono).
  • Does the costume include religious or spiritual symbols?
  • Does the costume require you or your child to change the color of their skin to resemble someone? (You can dress as Beyoncé for example without coloring your skin).
  • Does the costume represent a stereotype or generalization about a group of people (Indigenous people (Indians))?
  • Is the costume based on tragic historical events or violent acts that actually took place?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might want to consider another costume. Instead, consider fictional or imaginary characters like Cinderella, Superheroes, even the Golden Girls. Use your imagination!

Another celebration this time of year is Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) which is November 1st. This holiday is typically celebrated by persons of Latinx heritage, involves family and friends gathering to pay respects and to remember friends and family members who have died. These celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed. For more info on Dia de los Muertos, visit here: https://www.history.com/topics/halloween/day-of-the-dead.

And have a happy Halloween!

Dr. Kimbery Martin