Halloween should be a time for a little mischievousness, a lot of candy, and major creativity. However, October 31 has become a day when people dress up in offensive, culturally insensitive costumes. Despite the rise in “My Culture Is Not a Costume” campaigns, we continue to see disfraces that make fun of and appropriate different cultures.
So as we gear up for Halloween, here are six costumes that need to die a slow, painful death.
1
Customs & Border Protection agent costume
Dressing up as an agent for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) – and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for that matter – is offensive to undocumented communities. Both of these agencies have preyed and dehumanized undocumented folks, and wearing a costume like this shows a disregard for the abuses perpetrated by these two agencies.
2
A "Mexican" costume
A zarape, mustache, and a sombrero are a one-dimensional interpretation of Mexican culture.
3
The Wall costume
The Border Wall – and President Donald Trump’s immigration policies in general – aims to strip people of their dignity.
4
Sexy Día de Muertos costumes
Día de Muertos – often incorrectly called Mexican Halloween – is a culturally significant holiday where people celebrate their late loved ones. You should definitely stay away from Día de Muertos costumes, especially if they are sexy.
5
"Illegal Alien"
Undocumented people are humans, and this costume is not acceptable.
6
Cholo/Chola costume
Cholo and cholas culture is very specific to mostly Mexican-American communities, so if you’re not a cholo/a, don’t dress up as one.