HDSB Message:

Costumes that mimic the traditional attire of an ethnic, religious, racial or gender group/identity are inappropriate and unacceptable for Halloween at our school. This includes dressing in clothing of the opposite gender that is demeaning. Pretending to be a member of a group for ‘fun’ is evidence of cultural appropriation and sends the message that cultural attire is a ‘costume’ to be donned for entertainment purposes. 

Additionally, do not wear costumes that require you to assume a racialized minority or other marginalized identity. Assuming such an identity for entertainment purposes trivializes and disrespects the oppression of the group. 

Examples of costumes that mimic ethnic, religious, racial or gender group/identity include: 

● a caricature or representation of an Indigenous person by a person who does not have Indigenous Identity (e.g., Pocahontas) 

● a person who is Transgender 

● a person who is a Khalsa Sikh 

● a person who is a Hasidic Jewish person 

If your child(ren) choose(s) to dress up in a costume for Halloween, please ensure that they are contributing to the positive and prosocial climate that our school is cultivating around recognizing Halloween. 

With Halloween being on Monday, October 31st, we wanted to send a quick reminder to families.  

Your child has a choice if they are choosing to:

• dress up, 

• wear Orange and Black, 

• or not dress up at all.  

If you are choosing to dress up for the day, please remember that masks or weapons are NOT permitted, even if it is part of their costume.  It is important that the costume be appropriate for school.  HDSB has sent out messaging regarding this, please see below.

Please DO NOT send in any treats, candy, etc. for the class on that day.

Thank you so much for your cooperation,

Rattlesnake Point Public School