COVID 19 and Halloween Safety
Roadrunners,
As we move past midterms, I want you to know that I understand the stress that comes with our challenging environment and provide a reminder about the importance of focusing on self-care.
I also want to speak openly and honestly with you about this weekend.
Socialize Safely
We understand that you may want to unwind and gather with friends this Saturday for Halloween. We encourage you to make thoughtful social decisions, follow the Roadrunner Pact and put your friends’ health and safety first. Whether staying in to watch a spooky movie or putting on comfortable clothes and making a cup of hot cocoa in this cooler weather, there are many safe ways you can stay social this weekend while prioritizing self-care.
Consider what a safer Halloween could look like:
- Get creative with how to incorporate your mask into a Halloween costume
- Gather friends virtually for a watch party of your favorite scary movie
- Explore an online ghost tour or attend a virtual concert
- If you are seeing friends in-person, limit the number of people and bring your gathering outside
- Make sure all your friends are wearing face masks that cover their nose and mouth
- Practice physical distancing and hand-washing
- Encourage your friends to stay home if they are feeling sick
- Leave any social situation if these practices are not being followed
- If activities involve alcohol, have a plan to look out for one another and get home safely
- Check out the CDC’s guidelines for safer celebrations
- Follow @UTSAStudents on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat for more ideas through the weekend
Start the Conversation
Start the conversation with your friends. State your intention to have a safe weekend and ask for their cooperation and creativity to develop a healthier plan. I have included the badges below to help you get started. Share them on social media and show others you are willing to #ProtectTheNest. Doing so could make a huge difference for the safety of our community.
Respecting Cultures
If you are dressing up this weekend, please also be mindful when choosing your costume. What would your costume convey to family members or a potential employer? Is it considerate of others and their culture? A person’s culture should not be your costume. Use common sense and good judgment.
Looking beyond Halloween, consider celebrating Día de los Muertos and the endless connections with our departed loved ones. Share photos of a family member or ofrendas/altares with us using #UTSAMuertos and explore the Honors College virtual exhibit.
Remember that UTSA is here for you, and there are many resources to support you and your wellbeing. We care so much about you and want you to be safe this Halloween and throughout the holiday season.
I look forward to hearing more about how you protected the nest this weekend. Share your story with me at dos@utsa.edu.
