“We’re a Culture, Not a Costume:” Ethical Analysis of a College Student-Led Organization’s Anti-Racism Campaign

Abstract

Students Teaching against Racism in Society (STARS) attracted both national and international headlines in October 2011 with their anti-racism campaign entitled “We’re a culture, not a costume.” At the time of the campaign, STARS was composed of ten undergraduate student members at Ohio University (OU). Situated in Athens, Ohio, OU has a history of hosting block parties for Halloween. In order to combat “racist” costumes, STARS initiated a campaign, funded by the Dean of Students in order to foster conversation and to bring awareness to racist, discriminatory, stereotypical, and prejudiced Halloween costumes. This campaign raises many ethical dilemmas. Therefore, this analysis seeks to explore implicit and explicit values and ethical dilemmas inherent within the campaign. Since racial inequalities often lead health disparities, this ethical analysis of STARS’ campaign has implications for both intercultural and health communication scholars. Additionally, future implications and directions of research as well as future considerations for similar campaigns are discussed.