Halloween should and needs to be fun for ALL.  As students prepare for Halloween celebrations next week, it is important for students to be considerate with their costume choices.  Costumes should always be respectful of the diverse cultural and lived experiences of all members of our school communities; and must align with the expectations set out in our district and school codes of conduct (https://rhs.sd38.bc.ca/school-information/code-conduct).

We need to be sensitive to groups that have been marginalized through mimicry and cultural appropriation during Halloween and other ‘dress up’ events.  In making a costume choice, consider the following: 

It’s good to keep in mind that the following are NOT costumes:   

• RACE (black face/brown face)
• CULTURE (Indigenous regalia/dreadlocks)
• RELIGIOUS FAITH (religious figures/gods/saints/gurus/hijab)
• GENDER (gender switching for humour or to mock)
• TRAUMA (hangman’s noose/weapons)  

Be kind and consider the school community.  Costumes that could be offensive or perpetuate the stereotype of someone’s gender identity, culture, race, religion, age, or disability must not be worn.

Be thoughtful and safe.  Costumes that depict violence, alcohol or drugs are not appropriate. Similarly, replica weapons (e.g. guns, knives, etc.) must not be brought to school.

With Halloween falling on a school day, we must also be able to see students’ faces for identity purposes.  Costumes must be appropriate for their classes, such as PHE, Home Ec, Tech Ed, and sitting at a desk.

If students are unsure about their costume or have any other questions, please check in with administration.

We appreciate and thank everyone for helping to keep our school safe, caring, and inclusive this Halloween.