10/31/2022
Costumes can be one of the best parts about Halloween! We can still have fun AND party respectfully. Here are some tips. If you're worried you've messed up, learn and move forward for next year! Honestly, I feel that this extends to real-life antagonists of marginalized communities too- even if that antagonist is FROM your race/religion/gender group. Because- if you feel so ok putting that on, is it really a costume or does that say something about you?!
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1: our identities are not Halloween costumes
2: PSA: If you're dressing up as a person/character of a different race, religion or gender identity than you,
3: do: check with friends and/or online forums from that community to determine appropriateness of your costume idea. don't: just assume it's ok because you have good intentions
4: do: focus on clothing, props, and your acting skills. don't: do Blackface, brownface or adjust your features to 'match the character'. Keep in mind that some hairstyles and clothing items may be off limits.
5: do: purchase clothing items from vendors of that community. remember: there is a fine line between appreciation and appropriation!