Embrace the Heartwarming Colors of Halloween: A Celebration of Inclusivity and Compassion
By Muhammad Ahsan, DEI Specialist, EHRC
As we gear up for the spookiest night of the year, it’s essential to remember that Halloween can be a joyous occasion for everyone, including those with unique needs and conditions. This year, let’s decode the colours of compassion, represented by coloured pumpkins and candy buckets, that signal various messages to trick-or-treaters and foster inclusivity.
????Colored Pumpkins ????
Teal Pumpkin: A teal pumpkin on a doorstep or porch signifies participation in the Teal Pumpkin Project. Homes displaying this colour pumpkin offer non-food treats like small toys or items, which can be a lifesaver for children with food allergies. Let’s support their Halloween enjoyment by providing safe alternatives.
Blue Pumpkin: A blue pumpkin can signify that a child at this home may be on the autism spectrum, and the household is supportive and understanding of the unique need of Trick or Treaters on the autism spectrum.
Purple Pumpkin: Purple pumpkins raise awareness for epilepsy. Seeing a purple pumpkin outside a home could mean someone living there has epilepsy or knows how to respond to an epileptic seizure. It symbolizes understanding and support for those affected by this condition.
Pink Pumpkin: Pink pumpkins represent solidarity with breast cancer awareness. They signal that someone in the home may be a survivor, knows a survivor, or is currently undergoing treatment. Let’s show our support for their journey.
???? Colored Candy Buckets ????
Teal Bucket: A child with a teal bucket may have food allergies. These youngsters may prefer non-food treats like stickers, pencils, or glow sticks. Let’s be considerate and offer them options they can enjoy safely.
Purple Bucket: A purple candy bucket may indicate that the child has epilepsy. Treat them with kindness and understanding, knowing they may have unique needs.
Blue Bucket: A blue candy bucket might signify that a child is on the autism spectrum. These trick-or-treaters may have difficulty saying, “Trick or treat!” or appear older than they are. Let’s remember that all children deserve to experience the joy of Halloween and show them the acceptance and warmth they deserve.
???? Costumes and Cultural Appropriation ????
While we revel in the spirit of Halloween, it’s crucial to remember that our choice of costumes can either promote inclusivity or perpetuate harm. Let’s ensure our costume choices are respectful and considerate of all cultures. Cultural appropriation is never in the spirit of Halloween, so let’s opt for costumes that celebrate our diversity without offending.
This Halloween, EHRC hopes we make it a celebration of inclusivity, understanding, and compassion. Whether you’re handing out treats or collecting them, keep an eye out for these colours, and let’s ensure that everyone has a spooktacular time while being mindful of our costume choices.