Cultural appropriation— it’s a term you’ve most likely seen on just about every media platform in today’s society; and if you have not, it’s time to crawl out from under the rock you call home. By definition, cultural appropriation is something along the lines of “the adoption of elements of a minority culture by members of the dominant culture.” Also known as ignorance and idiocy, appropriation runs rampant this time of year. Halloween is some type of breeding ground for terrible costumes and offensive behavior. However, it is also my favorite holiday, so I get notably mad when I see people claiming cultures as costumes to play around with for one night. Halloween should be fun and freeing not oppressive and insulting. So without further ado, I present to you a list of Halloween costume do’s and don’ts.
Dont’s:
- Blackface
It literally does not matter what you are trying to achieve by painting your face, just do not do it. Blackface is so blatantly disrespectful to portray, especially if that person has no knowledge of the history behind it. As a popular stereotype born from arrogance and cruelty, I really do not think your costume needs it.
- Native American anything
It’s not cute, it’s not fun, it’s not quirky. Wearing feathers and face paint, ESPECIALLY if you don’t respect native cultures, or really know much about them in the first place, is appropriating it. So don’t do it.
- Calavera/Sugar skull
Okay. I’ve seen too many girls with their faces intricately painted in beautiful patterns and colors that would really be amazing if they weren’t appropriating a sacred holiday in and of itself. Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a holiday that has nothing to do with Halloween. It is a day to celebrate those who’ve passed, and should not be used as a fun costume.
- Anything demeaning to gender/sexuality
Don’t cross dress just for the fun of it. It’s not funny or clever. End of story.
Do’s:
- Scary things!
Be a ghost or a ghoul. Make it creative. Let your wildest fears out and embody them this spooky Halloween season. Channel your inner vampire or monster, whatever you want, as long as it’s not offensive to anyone.
- Puns
Paint your face like Gene Simmons and wear a beret– a French KISS. Get a power rangers costume and paint daisies on it– flower power. Tape a potato chip on your shirt– a chip on your shoulder. Whip out your graduation cap and gown, pass out some oreos–voila, you’re a smart cookie.
- DO RESEARCH
If you have any reason to believe that your costume might be offensive to anyone -literally anyone- rethink. Go online and see if it stems from a culture or a people you don’t know about. If it does, NEXT! Try on something else. If it doesn’t, enjoy being something else for a night.
Always remember to be safe and cautious on Halloween. Not only should you carefully plan your costume, but also try to have a game plan. Spooky things can happen if you are not aware of your surroundings. So to enjoy this holiday in the best way, be mindful, surround yourself with people you trust, and eat some candy.
