BONUS: Hangin' Out with Eiynah 5 - Halloween Special!
Oct 29, 2023
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In this Halloween special, host Jack is joined by Eiynah Mohammed-Smith and Dr Caitilin Green to discuss right-wing and IDW-type panics over woke Halloween costumes. They explore concerns about cultural appropriation, controversial Halloween costumes at Yale University, and a professor's blackface costume. The speakers also debate the interpretation of a controversial Halloween ad and share their own Halloween costume choices and traditions.
Halloween costumes ignite debate about freedom of expression and cultural sensitivity.
The incident of a professor wearing blackface provokes discussion on cultural appropriation and consequences of offensive costumes in education.
Controversy arises over a school district's ban on Halloween costumes, highlighting the debate on balancing cultural sensitivity and holiday traditions in schools.
Deep dives
Halloween Costume Controversy: Bill Maher Criticizes Buzzfeed's Problematic Costume List
Bill Maher criticizes BuzzFeed's list of problematic Halloween costumes, arguing that Halloween is meant to be outrageous and a festival of the sacrilegious. He denounces those who care about costume sensitivities as being overly sensitive and insists that the entire point of Halloween is to be problematic. Maher's comments spark controversy and debate about the balance between freedom of expression and cultural sensitivity when it comes to Halloween costumes.
University of Oregon Professor Faces Backlash for Blackface Costume
A University of Oregon law professor and former chair of the diversity committee, Nancy Shirts, faces backlash after dressing up as a black man for Halloween, using blackface makeup, an Afro wig, and a book title as her costume. The professor claims ignorance of the term 'blackface' and intended to honor an African American author. The incident sparks a conversation about cultural appropriation, racial insensitivity, and the consequences of offensive costumes in an educational setting.
Halloween Costume Ban in New Jersey School District Sparks Controversy
A New Jersey school district's decision to ban Halloween costumes and replace them with generic autumn decorations in schools is met with backlash. The superintendent cites considerations of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and potential harm to students' dignity as the reasons for the ban. However, critics, including the state governor, argue that the ban goes too far and infringes on children's ability to celebrate Halloween. The controversy highlights the ongoing debate about balancing cultural sensitivity and holiday traditions in educational settings.
Main Idea 1
The podcast episode discusses the controversy surrounding Halloween costumes and the call for sensitivity towards racial and cultural issues. It highlights incidents at Yale University, where students were confronted with racist Halloween costumes and insensitive comments from figures of authority. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context behind Halloween costumes and the need to promote inclusivity and respect.
Main Idea 2
The podcast episode also touches upon the religious aspect of Halloween and the debate surrounding appropriate costumes. While there is a belief that some costumes may be offensive to certain religious groups, the episode emphasizes the need for personal judgment and consideration. It challenges the notion that the left is constantly canceling or banning Halloween, arguing that most people simply advocate for avoiding costumes that perpetuate stereotypes or mock marginalized communities. The episode encourages open dialogue and understanding while rejecting extreme positions.
In this little Halloween bonus, Jack joins friend of the pod Eiynah Mohammed-Smith, and Dr Caitilin Green, for a special spooky space over at cursed nazi chan board X. Recorded October 27th 2023. Please excuse the usual sound quality issues.
We talk about right-wing and IDW-type panics over woke Halloween costumes, concerns about cultural appropriation, etc. To quote Eiynah's write-up: "We discuss Bill Maher, Steven Crowder, Yale professors Nicholas & Erika Christakis & their calls for students to ‘look away’ from ‘offensive Halloween costumes’, U of Oregon Professor Nancy Shurtz who wore blackface at a party that students attended ….all this and more."
As always, thanks to everyone who turned up to listen and contribute.
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