Halloween is here. As Noble Gentlemen of Sig Tau, we need to be mindful of the costumes that we choose to wear and the events we attend. Some of those costumes can cross the line and go from being creative to insensitive.

What might seem harmless to you may be offensive and hurtful to others. Please avoid costumes or themes that rely on stereotyping a certain group, encourage offensive dress, or that “makes fun” of a particular culture, race, group, or gender. Cultural appropriation is the act of taking or using things from a culture that is not your own. You can still appreciate another culture without trying to imitate it or emulate it as a costume on Halloween. Remember, if you are questioning the offensive nature of a potential costume, it’s always better to abstain and choose a different costume.

If someone shows up to an event in something inappropriate, send them home and do not let them enter your event. Do not take on the liability of their costume. The liability for you or your chapter is not worth the potential consequences.

Remember, it is simply not up to you to decide if something is offensive to others; be thoughtful and considerate. As a final reminder, please make sure all of your events or those hosted by your members are held to our standards. Know that the media, your campus, and Headquarters can still take action should something occur.

###

ABOUT SIGMA TAU GAMMA FRATERNITY
Founded at the University of Central Missouri on June 28, 1920, Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity celebrated 100 years of brotherhood in 2020. In the last 100 years, the organization has called 197 campuses home and has more than 73,000 initiated members. With a current presence on 73 campuses from coast to coast, our membership includes more than 2,700 undergraduate men. The Headquarters, which is home to the Fraternity, Foundation, and WPN Housing Company, is located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Visit https://sigtau.org for additional information.