If your first reaction to this topic was to roll your eyes until you could see the back of your head, then this piece is definitely for you! You’re likely among the many who dismiss the idea of cultural appropriation on Halloween with a shrug, claiming, “It’s just a holiday” or “Kids will be kids.” But hold on, this isn’t just a critique of Halloween; it’s a call to reflect on the meanings behind our actions during any festive occasion where people might don feathers and moccasins as if they’re simply a trendy fashion choice.
More often than not, those who dismiss concerns about cultural appropriation may not fully understand its implications and the real harm it inflicts on marginalized communities. Isn’t it delightful to dress up in attire borrowed from another culture, yet walk away without a care in the world about what that culture has endured? You can slip into a Native American costume, then return to your everyday life, free from the historical struggles faced by these communities. (And please, save the “my great-great grandmother was a Cherokee princess” anecdotes for another day.)
Or consider the absurdity of hosting a blackface gathering and then washing it away at the end of the night, all while claiming allyship because you have friends from diverse backgrounds.
Let’s clarify what cultural appropriation is not:
- A Black child dressing as Cinderella or Snow White is not cultural appropriation.
- A Latino child dressing as Anna or Elsa is not cultural appropriation.
- A white child dressing as Tiana is not cultural appropriation.
- An Asian child dressing as an English police officer is not cultural appropriation.
Got that? Now, what is cultural appropriation? According to Lakota Children’s Enrichment, it involves the use of cultural symbols, practices, or aesthetics from one group by another, typically without understanding their significance or history. Just because you claim your child admires a culture doesn’t mean you have to imitate it. Most parents who buy these costumes for Halloween don’t pause to consider how their choices might affect those from the cultures being appropriated.
Think of it this way: if you wouldn’t let your child wear blackface in a Tiana costume, why is it acceptable for them to dress as a geisha or a Native American? And let’s not forget that Pocahontas was a 14-year-old girl who endured trauma, including being kidnapped and taken from her home. As much as I enjoy Disney, why would you want your child to represent her in a costume? Have we really thought this through?
This isn’t about dictating how parents should raise their kids. It’s a reminder to critically evaluate what we teach our children when we allow them to wear “cute” costumes. These portrayals can diminish the experiences of those in cultures that have faced systemic oppression.
If you want to genuinely support these cultures, teach your children about their history and significance in respectful ways. If they admire a culture, consider purchasing something authentic from a member of that culture to show true appreciation. For more information on home insemination, check out this in-depth blog post and learn about how others have successfully navigated this journey.
In summary, dressing your child as Pocahontas for Halloween may seem harmless, but it can perpetuate stereotypes and overlook the painful histories associated with these cultural representations. Instead, foster an appreciation for diverse cultures through education and respect.