Cultural appropriation | Halloween edition

Halloween is approaching, and that calls for a reminder on what counts as a Halloween costume and what is cultural appropriation.

What is cultural appropriation?

Appropriation by itself is the action of taking something for one's own use, typically without the owners permission. Cultural appropriation, specifically, is the action of taking or using a particular aspect of any marginalized culture that one does not identify with, and using it without consent. Cultural appropriation inherently represents a lack of respect and appreciation for the given culture. There is a fine line between appreciating a culture and appropriating a culture. Appreciating a culture might entail studying the culture or being an ally to this culture. Appropriation is never a respectful way to go about doing this, especially when it comes to a Halloween costume. Turning a cultural element into a costume is not a method of appreciation. Although cultural appropriation often refers to a privileged culture misusing the customs and historical traditions of a marginalized culture, anyone is be capable of committing cultural appropriation. Why is it important to acknowledge cultural appropriation specifically on Halloween?

The use of a hairstyle, piece of clothing, headdress, or any other wearable aspect that traditionally belongs to a certain culture as a costume is not only dehumanizing to this group of people, but it is also a clear way of disregarding the cultural significance and meaning of the element to the given culture. Halloween, while a great time to dress up as something frightening or whimsical, is not the time to invest in a sombrero- as Mexican culture is neither of the two. Compared to a ghost or a vampire, dressing up as an entire culture is particularly insulting.

Costumes which aim to mimic a certain group of people encourage careless stereotyping and paint a picture of a culture which is so inferior to that of western culture that it can be reduced to a Halloween costume. When stereotypes are utilized in this fashion, it begins to play into the cycle of oppression, which will never end if we continue to normalize these types of subtle discrimination. Stigmas are very commonly placed upon the customs of these marginalized groups which are being portrayed as costumes. Thus the use of them as a costume is incredibly disrespectful and insensitive. If an individual is genuinely appreciative of another culture, they would understand that the way to go about expressing it is not through diminishing the entire culture into a costume for their Halloween party.

What are some examples of culturally appropriative costumes?

As a Mexican American, I personally find it incredibly offensive when people who do not identify with my culture or know hardly anything about it, wear costumes that supposedly portray it. Some of these include wearing a sombrero, a fake mustache, and/ or a poncho as a costume. It is incomprehensible to me that someone can reduce my people's entire existence and experience into a fake mustache and a sombrero. Other costumes that I, personally have been uncomfortable with are the cholo/a imitations as well as Dia de Los Muertos costumes. They are inherently inaccurate when used as a costume and they completely disregard the actual people behind the customs and traditions.

Other examples of culturally appropriative costumes commonly used regarding cultures that I do not personally identify with may include but certainly are not limited to: a geisha, a Rastafarian person, the use of any sort of Native American headdress and clothing, traditionally Middle Eastern headdresses and clothing, an Egyptian, a gypsy, the use of historically black hairstyles and wigs resembling black hair, traditional Indian dress, and the use of paint in attempt to portray another pigment of skin.

The sexualization of marginalized cultures is also unacceptable for a Halloween costume, and any other time of the year. Attached is a video showcasing the impacts of the use of cultural dress for a costume including exceptional explanations as to why these costumes are offensive and hurtful.

Ultimately, when considering a Halloween costume for this year, first ensure that it does not reflect or mock any given culture or group of people. Suggest that your friends and family do the same, because cultural appropriation is not cute and it contributes to greater consequences for our society in the long run.