At its core, Halloween is a celebration of connection, a chance to gather as a community and experience shared moments of joy and belonging.
In that spirit, it also holds a subtle but powerful link to the values that figures like Sojourner Truth fought for: a vision of a more just and equitable society where all people are seen, heard, and valued.
It’s when entire neighborhoods transform into spaces for sharing: sharing stories, laughter, and a sense of collective celebration.
And there’s something inherently beautiful, and yes, even just, about creating a space where everyone feels invited, from the kid who dreams of being a scientist to the little ones dressed as nurses, firefighters, or even the Avengers because they were inspired by social change.
It’s a rare, community-centered evening that transcends generational divides and brings people together.
I look back fondly during my early childhood when I had the chance to dress up and step into the shoes of my hero, Sojourner Truth (Marie Curie is also a childhood hero of mine!), a figure who has always inspired my understanding of justice and the power of speaking up for what’s right.
Her fearless and relentless advocacy for abolition and women’s rights challenged the injustices deeply embedded in the nation’s foundations.
Truth’s iconic “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech did more than question societal norms, it redefined the way we understand the intersections of race and gender, calling for a more inclusive and just approach to human rights.
Her life’s work reminds us that the fight for equality requires both courage and a vision of collective liberation. Truth laid a foundational pathway for future social justice movements, inspiring generations to continue dismantling systems of oppression and reimagining a society where freedom and equity are realities, not just aspirations.
This costume for me was more than just dress-up, they were about embodying values I hold dear and sparking conversations about the legacy of change-makers.
So, here’s to the costumes that tell stories and the spirit of unity we all need more of.
What are some meaningful costumes you’ve worn, or moments when Halloween made you feel connected to something bigger?
#Halloween #Community
