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Native American Culture is Not a Costume

   By Joshua Arce

Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation

Each October, as people start planning Halloween costumes, conversations about cultural appropriation resurface — especially when it comes to Native American “costumes.” While some see feathered headdresses or fringed dresses as a harmless nod to history, these outfits carry a painful legacy. They turn deeply sacred cultural symbols into party accessories and overlook the living traditions they represent. Let’s consider how costumes can perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and how we can do better.

Why Native “Costumes” Are Not Costumes

Traditional Native regalia is not a costume. It carries deep spiritual and cultural meaning and is often made by hand with materials, colors, and patterns that honor a person’s family, Nation, and achievements. These items are worn at ceremonies, dances, and celebrations to connect with ancestors and community, not for entertainment or fashion.

When someone wears a “Native” costume — especially one that reduces an entire culture to feathers, beads, or buckskin — it takes something sacred and turns it into a stereotype. It dismisses centuries of identity, struggle, and survival.

Appropriation takes without permission. Appreciation starts with humility and respect.

How did we get here?

The idea of the “Indian costume” didn’t come from Native communities. It came from Hollywood westerns, Wild West shows, and outdated school lessons that portrayed Native people as relics of the past or caricatures. For decades, movies and TV shows flattened hundreds of distinct Tribal Nations into a single image — the “noble warrior” or “Indian princess.” This narrow image spread into pop culture, influencing everything from Halloween aisles to sports mascots.

In recent years, more people are becoming #NativeAware about cultural appropriation — especially as more Native voices are heard in media, classrooms, and social platforms. Many schools, companies, and even costume retailers have started discouraging Native-themed costumes. Campaigns like My Culture Is Not a Costume have helped people understand that what might seem like a harmless outfit to one person can feel like disrespect or mockery to another.

Despite progress, stereotypes persist. Native-inspired costumes are still sold online, mascots and logos still use Native imagery, and many people still don’t understand the difference between appreciation and appropriation. These images may seem small, but they contribute to a broader misunderstanding of Native people as symbols — not as living, diverse communities with modern identities and vibrant traditions.

Appreciation Over Appropriation

So, what does cultural appreciation look like? It means showing interest and respect without claiming ownership or turning culture into entertainment. Here are some ways you can become #NativeAware through respect, curiosity, and support without reducing culture to a costume:

  • Learn directly from Native Voices. Read indigenous authors, follow indigenous creators, and attend cultural programs or lectures hosted by members of Tribal Nations near you.
  • Support Native artists and businesses. You can learn more about different Native artisans, designers, and creators start by visiting our #BuyNative page.
  • Visit Tribal museums or cultural centers. Ask questions and learn the context behind traditions.
  • If you want to wear something inspired by Indigenous styles, consult with Native artists first — some may welcome respectful collaboration and context.
  • Encourage schools, community groups, and retailers to adopt “My Culture Is Not a Costume” messaging.

Native American cultures are not frozen in history. They are living, evolving, and sacred — rooted in ceremonies, languages, and teachings that continue today. Wearing a headdress or powwow regalia outside its cultural context isn’t a tribute; it’s a misunderstanding. True respect means taking time to learn why these traditions matter and how they continue to shape Native identity today.

Together, we can all do better.