Letter to the editor: Practice inclusiveness this Halloween season, don’t choose offensive costumes

Letter to the Volante editor:

As Halloween draws near, we start to think about the fun, the costumes and the candy that goes along with it. Halloween is certainly a time of celebration and creativity. It is also a time to be mindful of our value on inclusive excellence and emphasis on everyone feeling valued, respected and accepted. USD has strongly held values related to diversity and inclusiveness. We ask that everyone be treated with respect and dignity in this Halloween season through behavior, language and costumes.

This past year, we have too often seen the harmful impact of harsh words, stereotypes, lack of civil discourse, jumping to conclusions about others and disregard for the rights of so many, such as women, people of color, disabled people, the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, Muslims and many more. At USD, we strive to learn from the pain these situations have caused and be mindful of our words and actions as we celebrate Halloween.

We ask all members of the USD community to think of these things as you choose and create your costumes this year and choose a costume conveying respect for all cultures, religions and people. Unfortunately, a trip to the Halloween aisle of local stores will reveal a variety of insensitive costumes: The Mexican, with sarape, sombrero and moustache; The Illegal Alien, with alien mask, orange jumpsuit and green card; The Chic Sheik, with robe, beard and sandals; and The Black Face Mask, along with portrayals of victims of disasters, domestic violence, community violence and war. These costumes are offensive and stereotypical. They have no place in an inclusive community.

We all just want to have fun on Halloween. Being mindful of costumes and behaviors simply ensures that we are not unkind or insensitive to other people in the process. Inclusive excellence must be practiced 365 days a year. On Halloween, be safe, joyful and imaginative and show that USD Coyotes value inclusive excellence!

Thank you,

The President’s Council on Diversity & Inclusiveness