In an attempt to rectify the annual problem of racially insensitive Halloween costumes causing controversies, major costume distributor Party City is trying something new. Starting this fall, they’re selling costumes based on white stereotypes.
“We figured the only solution to this problem was to incorporate the one race that hasn’t been culturally appropriated by Halloween costumes: white people,” said Gerald Rittenberg, CEO of Party City. “It’s not racist anymore if we put them all on a level playing field, right?”
Party City has begun to unveil some of these new costumes, and Rittenberg believes that the “Male College Student” costume in particular will prove extremely popular. “Male College Student” includes a Vineyard Vine shirt, a pair of salmon colored shorts, and a lanyard. The costume also provides a pair of sandals to be worn with socks. Another costume the company has unveiled is “Racist Uncle.” This costume has a fake pot bell and a tight fitting NASCAR shirt as accessories. It also comes with a list of racially insensitive comments to utter in place of “trick or treat.”
While some consumers expressed concern that these costumes would exacerbate the problem with enforcing stereotypes, most white people are perfectly content with the way they are depicted.
“For hundreds of years, our people have had every opportunity to succeed. So, I’m comfortable having one day a year where minorities get to reap the benefits of white privilege,” said William Brown, a white person. “And I guess women can be included in this too.”
Some of the other white costumes featured at Party City include Congressman, CEO, lawyer, and doctor.