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, please remember to wear a face-covering when in public due to COVID-19, and 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