Avoiding Cultural Appropriation and Discrimination at Halloween

Oct 30, 2024

Nova Scotians choosing to participate in Halloween festivities are asked to avoid cultural appropriation or discrimination when selecting their costumes. Awareness and empathy are key to making respectful decisions.

Using attire or regalia from someone’s culture as part of a costume is never appropriate and can be upsetting and discriminatory to those whose traditional way of dress is of great importance to them. Costumes that make light of historical trauma, or portray stereotypes of culture, race, religion, ethnicity, mental illness, caricatures of gender identity or expression, depictions of homophobia or transphobia, disability and other protected characteristics are not only insensitive and offensive, but they may be in violation of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.

Inappropriate Halloween costumes often reinforce stereotypes, promote cultural appropriation, or display insensitivity toward the culture, traditions and ways of life of others. The problem lies in taking elements of someone else’s identity or culture without understanding their significance, often reinforcing stereotypes or minimizing history, context and current issues.

Halloween is an opportunity for individuals and groups to enjoy activities such as decorating and dressing up. It is important to consider how your choice of costume may impact those around you.

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