Halloween Safety and Inclusivity in #AbbySchools

As Halloween approaches, students and staff across the Abbotsford School District are excited to celebrate with costumes, creativity, and community spirit. To ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive Halloween for everyone, we encourage families to keep the following tips in mind:

Respecting Diversity in Costumes

Halloween is a time for fun and imagination, and we want to make sure our costumes reflect respect and consideration for all cultures, beliefs, and identities. Costumes should avoid elements that might cause harm or offend others, including:

• Cultural or Racial Depictions: Costumes representing cultures or ethnicities (e.g., traditional regalia and hairstyles like dreadlocks) can be inappropriate unless they are part of one’s personal heritage.
• Religious Symbols: Outfits that include religious figures or symbols may not be suitable for Halloween.
• Gender Identity and Ableism: Costumes that mock or stereotype gender expressions or abilities can be hurtful.
• Violence: Consider avoiding costumes with themes of violence, such as excessive gore or imagery that may trigger traumatic responses.

In light of Diwali, which coincides with Halloween this year from October 31 to November 1, we encourage students who celebrate to wear traditional attire to honour their heritage—without using it as a costume.

Safety First: Tips for Halloween Night

The Government of Canada has a list of useful Halloween safety tips, and we encourage parents to consider the following:

• Costume Safety: Bright costumes make it easier for drivers to see children, and reflective tape is a great way to increase visibility. Costumes should be well-fitted to avoid tripping hazards, and it's best to use face paint instead of masks that may obstruct vision.
• Trick-or-Treating: Going out in groups adds safety and fun to the night. Only approach homes with lights on, and remember to look both ways before crossing streets. Carry a flashlight to help you be seen.
• Checking Treats: Parents are encouraged to check all treats before children eat them to avoid choking hazards or potential allergens.

Creating an Inclusive Halloween Experience

Halloween should be enjoyable for everyone! Let’s support an inclusive environment where all students can enjoy the fun. This may mean offering extra help for students needing assistance with accessibility or avoiding sensory triggers, being mindful of inclusive language, and celebrating in ways that make everyone feel welcome.

By working together, we can create a safe, respectful, and memorable Halloween for our entire Abbotsford community.

For more safety tips, visit the Government of Canada’s website.