The University of Florida offers counseling to their students who are offended by some insensitive costumes this Halloween. The university wants to make their students aware that counseling services are available to those who have concerns about inappropriate and offensive costumes.

"Some Halloween costumes reinforce stereotypes of particular races, genders, cultures, or religions. Regardless of intent, these costumes can perpetuate negative stereotypes, causing harm and offense to groups of people," UF administration said in a blog post. "If you are troubled by an incident that does occur, please know that there are many resources available."

The goal of the university here is to have a community that demonstrates respect and compassion for everyone. "Our students are certainly free to wear any costumes that they would like, however what we did was try and remind them that there are some costumes that are offensive to others, even unintentionally," said Janine Sikes, a spokeswoman for UF. She added that no one is inhibited or restricted from freely expressing herself, but in instances when someone is offended, then he or she can get the help that he/she needs.

This action taken by the university triggered different reactions from many people especially the netizens. On social media, many people have responded with sarcasm. But despite the various reactions of the people from social media like Twitter, the university wants to get their message across that they are making their counseling available for the students who need it through a 24/7 hotline of their Counseling and Wellness Center.

"Regardless of intent, these costumes can perpetuate negative stereotypes, causing harm and offense to groups of people," the school added. "If you choose to participate in Halloween activities, we encourage you to think about your choices of costumes and themes," advised the university.

Topics University of Florida, University, Students