TORONTO, Oct. 22, 2015 – With Halloween fast approaching, York University experts can offer perspectives on the evolution of Halloween, children’s favourite costumes, and the need to be sensitive to offensive stereotypes.

Nicholas Rogers, distinguished research professor in the Department of History, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies and author of Halloween: From Pagan Ritual to Party Night, can comment on:
The history of Halloween
The future of Halloween
How “trick or treat” began and developed
The origin of Halloween pranks
How new immigrants adapt to Halloween
Celebration of Halloween in the gay community

Alison Halsall, assistant professor, Department of Humanities, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies can comment on:
Halloween costumes based on characters in children's literature and adaptations of children's literature (film and graphic novels);
Traditionally popular costumes and why they persist over time (for example, princesses and superheroes);
The popularity of dress-up;
Fascination with the Gothic in children's literature and film;
Possible costumes to watch out for this year.

Noël A. J. Badiou, Executive Director, Centre for Human Rights at York U, can comment on:
Costumes that are offensive and could be perceived as harassing or discriminatory in nature;
Taking stereotypes and stigmas of a culture – for example, clothing, accessories, skin color or religion – and replicating them into a costume such as ‘Blackface’ or ‘Pocahontas’;
Questions individuals should ask themselves when choosing a costume – for example, Can I look in the mirror and confidently say that my costume choice would not be considered offensive to a particular race, ethnic origin, gender or religion?

For experts on more topics in the news, please visit York U’s Experts Guide.

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Media Contact:
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