Cultural appropriation is the adoption or use of elements of one culture by members of another culture. On the surface, this might not sound like a problem. However, costumes and other expressions of these cultures by someone who is not actively a part of one can be very offensive to those whom actually partake in these cultures.
Costumes portraying Geishas, Indians, Sugar Skulls, and much more can portray cultural appropriation. Also, general rule: DO NOT BLACK FACE.
A Geisha is a Japanese hostess trained to entertain with conversation, dance, and song.
Don't wear anything in regards to Native Americans.
Headdresses are a very sacred thing in Native American culture and it takes a lot of work to get them. Headdresses were used kind of like display of all the amazing things that a certain individual has done. Don't disrespect that by wearing it for Halloween.
Sugar Skulls have been very common Halloween looks in the past couple of years.
They're beautiful, and sometimes very simple to do. Sugar Skulls, however, belong to Mexico's Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Sugar skulls represent departed souls. It's believed that on October 31st, spirits of deceased children are allowed to reunite with their families for 24 hours. On November 2nd, adult spirits are able to come and enjoy the festivities prepared for them. Taking what a culture uses as a memorial for others and making it into a costume is cultural appropriation.
Overall, if it's concerned with a race or a cultural, it's probably racist in some form. Stay away from cultural and race-based Halloween costumes this year. Be safe and have a good time!
