Lindsey Graham | Opinion Co-Editor
The way our culture handles societal issues has drastically changed for the latest generations. When unfortunate events strike, we have begun to turn to mockery and humor. Instead of concern, there have been hundreds of jokes about Ebola as well as memes about poor, starving children in Africa. What’s the newest channel to turn tragedy into hilarity? Just look down the Halloween costume aisle.
It’s now a fad to dress as your favorite social problem when going out for trick or treating or Halloween parties, and you can now choose from a large multitude of options. Who doesn’t want to wear a sexy Ebola containment suit? Probably not those that have had family members affected by this terrible outbreak. Just take a look at the description:
“As the deadly Ebola virus trickles its way through the United States, fighting its disease is no reason to compromise style. The short dress and chic gas mask will be the talk of Milan, London, Paris, and New York as the world’s fashionistas seek global solutions to hazmat couture. Ending plague isn’t the endeavor of a single woman, so be sure to check out our men’s Ebola Containment Costume for a great couple’s costume idea.”
But wait, there’s more! On the same website, you can also buy other horrendous costumes, such as a pregnant nun and an ice bucket challenge suit. While the description states, “The Ice Bucket Challenge is the latest craze in “slacktivism” that helps raise awareness and donations,” the costume seems to mock the act of thousands that have accomplished raising funds and awareness. So go ahead, purchase a costume that undermines all the good that has come from all the efforts of the activists.
Still have yet to mumble ‘OMG’ to yourself and face palm? Take a step over to this section for a lovely Ray Rice costume that just screams domestic violence. It comes complete with a jersey, black face paint, and a bruised and beaten doll you can drag around with you! When did it become acceptable to make light of such hurtful events? Janay Rice, wife of Ray Rice, does not appreciate the lack of support from her fellow citizens:
“@JanayRice: @TMZ it’s sad, that my suffering amuses others.”
Another costume I stumbled on was a short, black, skeleton dress with a measuring tape around the waist.
“This sassy number was advertised as an “Anna Rexia” costume. Get it? Anorexia? Deadly medical conditions are the sexiest ones!” CNN said in the caption of the picture on the right.
Or maybe you are struggling on the opposite side of the spectrum and have had too much Sodexo this semester. Then you’ll have to head straight to Wal-Mart online and check out their selection of “Fat Girl Costumes”. This mislabeling of the “Plus Sized Costumes” section caused uproar on social media. Even though it was fixed quickly, it still damaged many egos.
Are they serious? So many teens and adults struggle with society’s pressure to conform and look like models. By turning anorexia and obesity into a joke, its no wonder those struggling feel trapped and confused on how to get proper help.
I am not surprised that #CrappyHalloweenCostumes was trending this week on Twitter. Perhaps mixing issues with humor has become a coping mechanism for our society. However, there needs to be boundaries established so that those who are affected by the issues are not hurt. Do not even think twice about dressing in a hurtful costume this year. Can we please stick with Rosie the Riveter?
