We still do our best to participate and pass on the traditions associated with October 31st, but lately I've been getting that sinking feeling that we are part of a dwindling minority of Hallowe'en celebrants. Should it surprise anyone that in our hypersensitive, politically correct world that the customs associated with Hallowe'en have become offensive and unwanted to many?
Hallowe'en's endangered species list:
Haunting your house or making your yard into a spooky cemetery? You're apt to be branded a heretic by at least a few of your neighbors. As our population ages, I guess we should expect this. The elderly with one foot in the grave certainly don't relish the reminders and that's a shame because they would indeed make the best ghouls.
Trick-or-Treating? Well, the tricks died out years ago, but I'll wager that the treats aren't far behind. Back in the day, a young treat-seeker would be hard pressed to happen upon a darkened house with occupants unwilling to dole out any goodies. Last week, it certainly appeared as though the pendulum has swung to the other extreme with long stretches of homes in our neighborhood not participating at all. And is there anything more depraved than locking your door, turning off the lights, but yet sending your own brood out to collect an (un)fair share of loot?
Costume parties? Some of my fondest memories as a young adult were forged during college Hallowe'en parties. Now, however, it would seem that there aren't too many costumes that would pass the inoffensive sniff test. This is due in part to the We're a Culture, Not a Costume campaign that has gained traction over the last few years whereby any costume depicting a racial or ethic stereotype is viewed with considerable contempt. Most respectful adults would know that masquerading as say Adolf Hitler would be taboo, but we shouldn't have to feel the need to think twice about dressing up as a cowboy, a geisha, or a pimp because we're offending someone's entire culture. The fact that many now do reconsider their choice of garb is yet another nail in Hallowe'en's coffin (excuse the pun). Stop it, already!
Hallowe'en has always been a time for silly secular traditions and the revelry associated with them. These are not the issues; those who think otherwise certainly are.
