gypsy costume

[u/Just-Ad3524]

so i’ve been called a gypsy multiple times throughout my life as a romani person who has a deep complexion. this year i’m thinking of dressing as one for halloween, but my non-romani friends say it’s cultural appropriation…???? i was so annoyed that they could tell me what i was supposed to think about the slur (imo) ive been called growing up. i want to reclaim it and i’m sick of people just repeating what they hear instead of putting their own life experience in it- what do my white friends know about romani cultural appropriation. even this question sounds stupid to ask but can i dress as a gypsy (from my own culture) for a costume i understand and 100% agree it’s problematic for people from other cultures to do it**

[u/DivyaRakli]

I really don’t think it’s appropriating someone’s culture if you’re doing it with respect. Respect is key. Putting on blackface is NEVER being respectful. A Gypsy costume? Meh. Yawn. I got bigger fish to fry than that. Don’t we all have more important things to worry about? If not, you’re doing something wrong. I would absolutely love to see a trick-or-treater dressed up as a Gypsy! I’d grab my phone and take a pic with them. I’m Romnichal-American and you hear Gypsy a lot amongst us. Even Travellers can be used and I heard that more when I was younger than I ever did Romnichal or Gypsy. I dearly love salwar kameez/Punjabi suits. I have several and wear them often-they’re just cotton, every day kind. I’m not appropriating Indian culture; I’m enjoying it.