(10/29/23) Learn more about The Institute for Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion at Chase Brexton here: The Institute for EDI | Chase Brexton Health Care
Racist Origins of Idiom, “Spooky/Spooked”
Common Use: Frightened, scary, often used in association with Halloween activities, events, parties, films, or the season in general.
Origin of the Word: During World War II, the Black military pilots in the Army air corps were called, “spookwaffe”. At the time, white soldiers began using the word as a slur, referring to their Black colleagues as, “spooks”.
LGBTQ+ History and Halloween
Halloween has long been an important and celebratory holiday for many in the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a day/season of play and exploration with special queer-focused events, parties, and parades going back nearly 100 years. It has been an opportunity to express ourselves freely with our friends and communities.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
Día de los Muertos is celebrated in Mexico and in Hispanic/Latino communities around the world. The origins of this celebration date back over 3,000 years to the Aztec and Nahua people. On this day, the belief is that folks who have passed will return to their Earthly loved ones for a celebration.
A Few Tips when Dressing Up This Year
·Dress safely
o Wear comfortable shoes
o Be careful of masks/props that might make falling more likely
o If going outside, bring a sweater, coat, or gloves if chilly
·Refrain from costumes that are offensive to others’ cultures or identities. If you think it’s near or on the line, it’s probably over the line.
Did you Know?
Americans have increasingly included their pets in Halloween celebrations in recent years with $500 million being spent on pet costumes in 2021.
Learn more about content covered in today’s Halloween EDI Digest here:
Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) - Origins, Celebrations, Parade | HISTORY
The History of How Halloween Became a Sacred LGBTQ+ Holiday | Them
Halloween 2023: Origins, Meaning & Traditions | HISTORY
Before You Use the Word 'Spooky' You Should Know Its Racist Origins (newsweek.com)
This Halloween: What Does It Mean To Call Something 'Spooky'? : Code Switch : NPR
