Since attending this English class with Fields, I began to question the reasoning behind things we are very much accustomed to. This trip was no different. I saw costumes from a plug and socket to unicorn masks to very ethnically specific costumes. I began to reflect as to why there was a Mexican Man costume. I assure you, my father, a proud Mexican man, does not wear a sombrero nor a 'vibrantly stripped poncho', (which is actually a zarape). Although I cannot deny he has a mustache, a personal choice, not ethnically related.
They were also selling face tattoos which were taken from the Mexican holiday Dia de Los Muertos that occurs the 1st and 2nd of November. This is the day when families celebrate in remembrance of people whom have passed away.As I passed the aisles I felt very disrespected. I saw these white faces depicting what they thought a Mexican male should look like. I saw these white faces painted to look like the sugar skulls that are placed to decorate the sacred alters of our passed loved ones. I can't imagine how someone can feel comfortable wearing these things to pretend to be someone or wear this kind of make up for a made up holiday that has no meaning. This is my culture and my traditions being exploited for capital gain.
Today I learned that cultural appropriation is alive and thriving in this day in age. By selling costumes like this, it continues the cycle of internalized oppression. How can us minorities, better ourselves when we are not taken seriously in the eyes of America? I hope one day these costumes along with those of the Indigenous people, will no longer be mocked or exploited for personal gain.
A wonderfully written, insightful post. Cultures are not costumes.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your blog. Costumes have become so offensive lately and it's absolutely ridiculous. I've seen several costumes MOCKING my culture and yours as well, so it's nice to see we have a similar perspective on this.
ReplyDeleteThis Is so true, it was not until last year that I realized this. I used to think those costumes were funny until I learned about oppression. They have a costume labeled "drunken Mexican" where the costume consist of a pncho, sombrero, and a beer bottle in the hands. This is saying that all Mexican males drink beers and all hold alcoholic traits. This is not the truth about all Mexicans, but if this is what society is told, then why would they think any different? Sad, the oppression is real!
ReplyDeleteThis is actually one of my favorite posts. Many people overlook the meaning behind dressing up as a specific costume, like the example you used of a Mexican Man costume. It is definitely offensive to some people because some of these costumes are completely inaccurate and give out false interpretations. Thanks for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteInteresting title; you have my curiosity, and now you have my attention to read your blog and I love it. I agree that costumes nowadays are going to "the next level" where stereotypes and racism are able to be seen physically through the costumes. some of the costumes that offend certain people are inaccurate, yet people ignore this fact and instead, they make fun of it.
ReplyDeleteThis is written very well and true. I've witnessed it before and I do not think it is ok. i feel it is somewhat discrimination because its saying if you're this race you look like that and I think we are at a time in life where it just needs to stop. Good Job. I enjoyed reading this, it kept my attention the whole time.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with what you said here. Costumes are way too ridiculous these days, and the prices are ridiculous as well. You know what I have also noticed, that it is not only about costumes that tend to portray a false image of an ethnic group but also gender roles! The costumes for women are unnecessarily short and the girls portrayed in the package are "naughty" looking. Like if that is the way women supposed to express through that costume. Meanwhile, the costumes for guys are the ones that make men look muscular with swords etc.
ReplyDeleteReally loved reading this post, it was simple, short, yet made me think more in-depth about the fact that internalized oppression is caused by little things like this. Your title was very catchy to me too!
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