Florida universities discourage offensive Halloween costumes

FORT MYERS, Fla. — One year following an uproar over students in blackface at a UCLA fraternity party, the University of Florida is advising students to choose their Halloween costumes wisely.

The university published an online memo that said some costumes “can perpetuate negative stereotypes, causing harm and offense to groups of people” and provided a phone number, email address and link to a website where students can report something they find offensive.

Other Florida colleges such as Florida State University are also advising students on what is appropriate to wear.

Counseling services are available 24 hours a day to those who might be offended, the University of Florida also said.

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