Oppressed Cultures aren't Costumes

Oppressed Cultures aren't Costumes

The Issue

Aboriginal peoples are often unrepresented in the media. Costumes like these perpetuate stereotypes and misrepresent real cultures, especially when they're created by and worn by people who don't understand the cultural significance and background of the items. The fact that these costumes are stocked alongside cowboy costumes only makes things worse; it is reminiscent of the "cowboys and Indians" games we now cringe at. Aboriginal peoples, their cultures, and regalia aren't just a part of the past - they're still here. Not to mention that it can be plain upsetting to see items deemed as sacred in your culture as part of a token costume. 

Let's encourage Spirit Halloween and other costume stores to take a stride in the right direction!

This petition had 106 supporters

The Issue

Aboriginal peoples are often unrepresented in the media. Costumes like these perpetuate stereotypes and misrepresent real cultures, especially when they're created by and worn by people who don't understand the cultural significance and background of the items. The fact that these costumes are stocked alongside cowboy costumes only makes things worse; it is reminiscent of the "cowboys and Indians" games we now cringe at. Aboriginal peoples, their cultures, and regalia aren't just a part of the past - they're still here. Not to mention that it can be plain upsetting to see items deemed as sacred in your culture as part of a token costume. 

Let's encourage Spirit Halloween and other costume stores to take a stride in the right direction!

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Petition created on October 19, 2017