That said the decision to augment Halloween traditions (or even to eliminate them) has produced a very pronounced response from parents. You can read one of the many articles on the topic here.
People have commented very strongly on the topic. It brings up the big divide we seem to find in every part of society.
Freedom. People seem to perceive freedom as the equality of every possible thing for every possible person at all times.
Freedom. It is not equality. It is not an even playing field. It is simply the capacity to choose what you want to choose without governmental hindrance. It is protected by a series of rights added to our Constitution. Freedom to speak. Freedom to assemble peaceably. Freedom to write what you wish to say. Freedom to worship and to express your worship in the manner you understand God wants you to worship Him. Freedom to worship without any governmental encumbrance. Freedom to have your own thoughts and to share those thoughts without governmental reprisal.
We teach our children about fairness in the classroom. Fairness is not everyone having the same thing, fairness is everyone having what they need. We make posters that say that (or something very similar). You get what you get, and you don't get upset. Then, we proceed to undermine that lesson by saying, "Well, if everyone can't do it, no one can do it."
We need to advise children about the truths in their futures. In life, you will be left out sometimes. In life, you will not always have every thing your neighbor can afford. In life, you will adjust to the differences, rejoice with others, and find contentment in your own blessings. You will not always get a raise or a promotion. You will not always be treated fairly. What you do about that is up to you. If it is truly a case of discrimination, stand up, speak out, and move forward. However, Halloween is not discrimination. It is a difference of culture. How can we state we are inclusive when the first time someone doesn't like what we are doing we exclude everyone from an experience.
As a teacher, I wouldn't mind if we never celebrated anything or dressed differently for any reason. It is a hassle. I'm always chasing around to find napkins or forks for the parent who brought treats but forgot about serving ware. I am forever trying to find the top of someone's outfit that they lost somewhere between changing and the classroom. It is a hassle. However, It is also something my students enjoy. I work to make sure that they enjoy their childhood as they travel through my classroom.
There are times in the course of the school year that a student does not participate in a spirit day. Or a pay to dress down day. Or extra curricular activities. Does this mean that we can never afford our students those opportunities?
Differentiation for lessons is great. It is necessary. We should do that.
Differentiation for every life circumstance is not realistic, nor is it beneficial. In order for us to be tolerant and accepting, we need to begin at the younger ages by modeling tolerance and acceptance of Halloween.
For those who think we should be Hallow won't, that is your choice. I just disagree with you. So, tomorrow, don't ring my doorbell expecting candy. I won't be home because I don't want to encourage kids to get food from people they don't know. Enjoy your celebration whether at your school or in your neighborhood. Christmas, Hanukkah, Easter, Valentines Day, or whatever else you celebrate can be a chance for us to understand one another better.
First published October 31, 2017
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