By Sophia Whittemore
AsAmNews Staff Writer
I remember that the best part of Halloween was searching for a costume, and pressing all the buttons on the electronic zombies display. Then, there was the ill-fated adult costumes aisle where everything was turned into a “sexy costume”. “Geishas” with short skirts and fishnet stockings, “Native queens” with low necklines and leather, and don’t get me started on all the variations of the “exotic” variety. (Please don’t sexualize little kids, because some of those costumes branched over to terrifying in an entirely different way).
Halloween is a night of fun, candy, and crazy costumes. Yet, while costumes can be a fun release from the stresses of everyday life, you should always keep in mind that it shouldn’t poke fun at other people and hurt them.
Here are ten questions everyone should ask themselves before donning that mask for Halloween.
- Is it likely one or more people won’t “get the joke”
- Is this another religion that’s not mine?
- Is this another culture that’s not mine?
- Is this a play on a stereotype?
- Would I be proud of letting future employers see this?
- Could I post this to social media without any sort of backlash?
- Am I trying to justify wearing this costume because I know, deep inside, that it’s an uncomfortable choice?
- Can I see a person who might get hurt by this portrayal?
- Is this REALLY in “good, clean fun”, or is this at somebody else’s expense?
- Is it the humanly decent thing to do?
With that, remember to stay safe this Halloween. And don’t let bad costume choices get in the way of the celebration.
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