Dressing up as an Hawaiian Islander?

Question

So for Halloween, I don't really want to spend any money on a costume because that's money I need for something else (school, books, tuition), and the only thing I have in my house that's costume-related is a Hula skirt that my sister used when she did a Tahiti dance last year at school, but I was wondering, is dressing up as an Hawaiian Islander offensive to their culture? I know a lot of people do it, but is it right? I don't want to have to compromise my morals just because I don't want to go out and buy a costume, and also, I'm an Ethnic Studies major so that makes me all the more conscious....lol what do you guys think?

Answer 1

My family lived there for years. They are not polynesian but local.

I don't think it is offensive in anyway. If you don't do anything additional to the costume obnoxious like a knife in the heart with blood or a wig, you are not offending me or anyone I know there.

Many Americans come back from the most exoctic of American places, the Hawaiian Islands with beautiful Hawaiian shirts and where them here. They aren't being kitsch but paying a little respect to the place they visited. The same can be said of my friend in NY who has a lei sent for special occassions to the city.

Good for you not to spend money on something you'll wear once for a party. . .

Answer 2

I have family from Hawaii and I don't think they would be offended at all. In fact, I can just imagine my auntie's reaction - she would be delighted. She gets excited whenever she sees anything that relates to the islands. I think it's a great idea for a costume. If you don't want to spend money you can make a little cardboard ukelele and carry it around. I think it would be cute.

Answer 3

I have a Hawaiian friend sitting next to me who says it's not offensive at all. go for it

Answer 4

That sounds pretty cool.I would do it.