Other People's Identities Are Not Your Costume

[Content Note: Transphobia; othering.]

Every year, as Halloween approaches, I'm obliged to write a post about how other people's identities are not costumes. We're getting an early start this year, as Halloween retailers are stocking, or promising threatening to stock, Caitlyn Jenner costumes. I won't post a picture of the "unisex" costume being modeled by a man, but there is one at this link, if you are inclined to take a look at how dreadful it really is.

The outrage began earlier this month after we reported Spirit Costumes' intention to sell the costume — though it still hasn't been listed on the company's website.

But Spirit Halloween publicist Trisha Lombardo said she personally didn't see any problem with it.

"Caitlyn Jenner has proven to be the most important real-life superhero of the year, and Spirit Halloween is proud (of) the costume that celebrates her," she said at the time.

This? Is bullshit. The costume is, like most Halloween costumes, meant to be absurd and comical. No cis person will be buying this costume to honor, or "celebrate," Caitlyn Jenner. It's a mockery. And Spirit Halloween publicist Trisha Lombardo knows that, even if she wants to pretend she doesn't.

But the quality and intent of the costume isn't even especially relevant, because even if it were somehow tastefully done (whatever the fuck that means), the issue is treating Caitlyn Jenner's identity as a costume in the first place.

Other people's identities are not your costume. Rinse and repeat as many times as necessary. For fuck's sake.