Scared Of Halloween Costumes? UF Offers Counseling For That
It’s the most scariest time of the year and the University of Florida will be offering counseling to anyone who is disturbed or offended by any costumes worn this coming Halloween. No word yet on a clown ban at the prestigious Florida college.
On Monday the college wrote in a blog post on their website urging students to “think about your choices of costumes and themes.”
“If you choose to participate in Halloween activities, we encourage you to think about your choices of costumes and themes. Some Halloween costumes reinforce stereotypes of particular races, genders, cultures, or religions.”
“Regardless of intent, these costumes can perpetuate negative stereotypes, causing harm and offense to groups of people. Also, keep in mind that social media posts can have a long-term impact on your personal and professional reputation.”
The school stated that any students who are offended or troubled by an incident or costume could seek counseling at the wellness center or alert the school’s Bias Education Responde Team which provides support to those who are impacted.
“The University of Florida’s Division of Student Affairs Diversity and Social Justice Statement reminds us that UF fosters a community that values and respects diversity. An inclusive definition of diversity recognizes the variety of personal and social experiences that make individuals and communities different from one another.”
“If you are troubled by an incident that does occur, please know that there are many resources available. Please take advantage of the 7 day a week presence of the U Matter, We Care program at the University of Florida by emailing umatter@ufl.edu. Additionally, there is a 24/7 counselor in the Counseling and Wellness Center available to speak by phone at 352-392-1575. Lastly, the Bias Education and Response Team at the University of Florida is able to respond to any reported incidents of bias, to educate those that were involved, and to provide support by connecting those that were impacted to the appropriate services and resources. You may submit a bias incident report at www.umatter.ufl.edu/stopbias.”
The release of this post comes days after Wisconsin-La Crosse hosted an event that focused on educating students on not dressing racist. Around 30 students showed up to the event.
A school district in Connecticut is also cracking down on clown costumes after a series of “killer clowns” have appeared scaring cities nationwide.