A Message from the UGDSB:

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

As Halloween approaches, we ask families to help ensure that any costumes worn at school support a welcoming environment where every student feels respected and included.

The board’s expectations for celebrations at school are guided by UGDSB Policy 323: Celebrations, Commemorations, and Flags and its accompanying Celebrations Procedures 323-A. These procedures apply to Halloween and include expectations for respectful attire, safety and optional participation.

Cultures and identities are not costumes. Costumes must not stereotype, mock or trivialize race, culture, ethnicity, religion, disability, gender identity or other aspects of identity. This includes Blackface or changing skin colour to imitate another race, using sacred or culturally significant items as costume props, and costumes that ridicule disability, mental illness or gender expression. Students’ own cultural and religious clothing and gender expression should always be respected.

Please talk with your child about their costume choice: Does it rely on a stereotype? Could it make someone’s identity, beliefs or lived experiences the subject of a joke? Even when harm is unintended, the impact on others matters. Creative choices such as animals, favourite fictional characters or everyday objects can offer plenty of opportunities for fun.

Replica weapons and accessories that pose a safety risk are prohibited. Schools will communicate any additional expectations for their planned activities.

Participation in Halloween activities and costume wearing is optional. Students do not need to purchase or wear a costume to belong. Students who do not participate must not be singled out, segregated or excluded from regular school activities and will be provided with equally valued alternatives.

If you are unsure about a costume or have questions about participation, please contact your child’s school in advance.

Thank you for helping make our schools places where creativity, dignity and belonging go together.

Sincerely,

Alicia Ralph

Human Rights, Equity, and Accessibility Commissioner

Upper Grand District School Board