Consider this when choosing your Hallowe’en Costume

Culture is not a costume. It’s a matter of respect.

It’s Hallowe’en party season and many UBC students are planning their costumes for events on and off campus.

Hallowe’en is the one time of year when people dress up for fun in costumes – some of us do this to honour or spoof themes of creatures of the night, witches and otherworldly beings, others dress up to reflect prevalent themes in society.

The Equity & Inclusion Office reminds everyone, when making your costume choices Culture is not a Costume.

Let’s keep people’s culture and race out of the costume. Take care not to wear blatantly and unabashedly racist and or sexist costumes. It’s a matter of respect.

Do your part to create and sustain a respectful environment wherever you are. Share this message widely on social media and with your clubs, fraternities, sororities, residences and classrooms.

Best wishes for a safe and respectful Hallowe’en.

The Equity & Inclusion Office

Read more:
When Halloween costumes cross the line, from Professor Mona Gleason, UBC Faculty of Education.