INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – With Halloween approaching, the season of social gatherings with candy, scary movies, and costumes is here.

Unfortunately, some costumes can cross the line between creative and insensitive. As Noble Gentlemen of Sig Tau, we must be mindful of the costumes that we choose to wear and the themes of events we attend.

Brothers, please be conscientious of what you wear this Halloween season. What might seem harmless to you may be offensive and hurtful to others. Please avoid costumes or themes that stereotype certain groups, particular cultures, race, group, or gender.

Cultural appropriation is the act of taking or using things from a culture that is not your own, especially without showing that you understand or respect this culture. 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 attend your event. Do not take on the liability of their costume. The liability for you or your chapter is not worth the potential consequences.

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 standard. Know that the media, your campus, or Headquarters can still take action should something occur.

Contact Headquarters Staff with any questions you may have about hosting safe and successful events or choosing appropriate costumes.

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ABOUT SIGMA TAU GAMMA FRATERNITY
Founded at the University of Central Missouri on June 28, 1920, the organization will commemorate its 100th Anniversary in 2020. With a presence on 83 campuses in 31 states, our membership includes over 3.000 undergraduate men and 61,000 living alumni. The Headquarters, which is home to the Fraternity, Foundation, and WPN Housing Company, is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, 12 miles from the center of downtown. Visit https://sigtau.org for additional information