In October, we all look forward to the fall season and to Halloween. If you choose to participate in Halloween festivities on or off campus, we encourage you to think about your choices of costumes and party themes.

Many costume choices can reinforce negative stereotypes of particular genders, cultures, races, religions, and political affiliations, and can cause harm to others, regardless of the intent of the wearer.

At the University of Iowa, we strive for equity, inclusion, and compassion and to create a safe and affirming community for all faculty, staff, and students. We can achieve this through empathy and respect when deciding how we celebrate the Halloween season and beyond.

Finally, remember that masks are strongly encouraged if you are in a location where you are not able to social distance and are not vaccinated. As always, have a safe and happy fall.

If you are troubled by an incident that does occur, please know that many resources are available.

Campus resources

Equal Opportunity and Diversity, 319-335-0705
Office of the Ombudsperson, 319-335-3608
Women’s Resource and Action Center (WRAC), 319-335-1486
Rape Victim Advocacy Program (RVAP), 319-335-6000
UI Libraries Anti-Racism Guide

Student resources

University Counseling Service, 319-335-7294
Office of the Dean of Students, 319-335-1162
Campus Inclusion Team, 319-335-1162
Center for Diversity and Enrichment, 319-335-3555
Graduate College Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, 319-335-2144
Academic Support and Retention, 319-335-1497
Student Disability Services, 319-335-1462, TTY 319-335-1498
Multicultural and International Student Support and Engagement (MISSE), 319-335-3263

Faculty and staff resources

UI Employee Assistance Program, 319-335-2085
Faculty and Staff Disability Services, 319-335-2660, TTY 319-335-3495