This past Halloween weekend, I had an experience that allowed me to genuinely ponder the idea of reverse racism. A friend and I decided to dress up as characters from the 2004 movie White Chicks. We are both black males [just as the actors were in the film], and our outfits consisted of blonde Walmart wigs, tight outfits, and light makeup/white face paint.
Our last-minute costumes were well received [especially by white females], until I received a text. In sum, the message suggested that my costume could be seen as racist/ culturally appropriated. He further suggested that because I stood for a cause such as the controversial injustices revealed in Ferguson, MO, my actions make me out to be a hypocrite. He made sure to emphasize how he, as a white male, did not personally feel offended, but there are some who might be. For those who are offended, I apologize in advance for your confusion.
I stand firmly by my freedom of expression; especially as it relates to a festive holiday like Halloween. His opinion lacks merit; I do however respect honesty, so I will address the issues surrounding this topic. According to Collins Dictionary, reverse racism is “a perceived discrimination against a dominant group or political majority.” This new term is just a redundant synonym for racism. There are a few reasons why reverse racism does not and cannot exist. Racism requires a certain amount of privilege and power, that of which non-whites in America do not possess. Reverse racism is an anomaly that does not exist because it cannot defend advantages of racial groups who are disadvantaged in society. If you are thinking of the act of being prejudice, I agree that minority groups can take part in that, as all people battle their prejudices. But prejudice cannot be conveyed through a costume choice; hence, it is irrelevant in this discussion. And if you believe we live in a “post-racial” society that helps my case because it would have provided an environment where my costume is not seen as an issue.
But I digress; clearly white people are not oppressed, so let’s get back to costumes. Cultural appropriation is essentially the adoption or use of one culture by members of a different culture in a negative or inappropriate manner. This concept developed as a result of minority groups protesting against their culture being mocked by dominant groups. For example, “blackface” became popular during a time when people of color were considered lesser in society. It originated when white people wanted to entertain one another, and it influenced how audiences saw people of color at the time. Let me remind you that white is seen as normal and that idea been enforced throughout U.S. history.
I know I am very familiar with white culture; it has been taught to me throughout my years in school. In fact, my ability to speak “proper” English may be cultural appropriation. Should I be called out on that as well? Most of the activities and actions we engage in on a dayto-day basis are adaptations or inspirations of a culture other than our own. Let me remind you that whiteface hasn’t tarnished the white image or white social capital at all. White blonde women did not boycott White Chicks, the Wayans brothers’ careers did not end as a result of white face, and you probably supported the film too. So save it. In the end, I understand that people are sensitive, and it is very easy to inaccurately represent another culture. I also believe that if a person wants to take that risk and dress as another culture [Native American, Mexican etc.], that person should be knowledgeable of that culture and informed on issues surrounding that culture.
If someone of that culture was to quiz them on the spot, how well prepared would they be? What have they done in respect to the culture and the people of that culture outside of the holiday? Otherwise, you are on the verge of being ignorant and possibly dishonoring someone’s tradition. I believe people should be able to dress as whatever or whomever they want for Halloween. Unfortunately, that is not the case for some. U.S. history reflects exactly how white culture ruined the chance to freely mimic minority cultures through the arts. So, if you believe that my costume is taking advantage of a “double standard,” on my behalf, I object. Double standards apply for things that are equal, whiteface and blackface are not. Whiteface is not a thing. What about clowns? The joker? Start up a movement if this really is an issue. Otherwise, check your privilege.