Mexican-themed NYE party - racist, right?

[BobLobla]

Just been invited by very good friends to their NYE party which promises to have a Mexican theme and everyone must wear a long droopy moustache and a sombrero. Already I am cringing as I think this is pretty racist. Don't think I’ll go… but do I say something privately to my friends about the fact that this seems really off? Do I just dip out and not say anything to avoid awkwardness?

Well to be picky, being Mexican isn’t a race. But I would agree, it’s probably a stereotyped theme and would make me uncomfortable.

Yes, I'd feel the same. I think I would say something. Would you go to the party otherwise?

I'd definitely say something, are they usually this tone-deaf? It's fine to throw a party with Mexican food, drinks and music but the rest is a no.

Yeah, I think Mexican theme, fine. Dressing up as a cartoon version of real people who face a shitload of prejudice in North America - not OK.

We socialise a fair bit so I probably would. They love fancy dress . Just think they haven’t thought this through

I think everything is fine except the mustaches

Agree with this.

I would tell them nicely as they obviously don't realise.

That’s a good point about the theme versus the ‘dress code’. Think I will message them privately.

Yeah that's not on. I'd tell them you weren't going and suggest they make sure no photos are put on social media of it so they don't lose their jobs.

Why? What has made them pick Mexican?

I can't really think of a reason that would make it OK, but I suppose if they behave a genuine link to the culture?

How can they not realise?

Have you asked any Mexicans if they would be offended? Are there any Mexicans invited?

That's not how it works.

I would guess they don't consider it the same as blackface, even though essentially it is obviously.

I suspect they have a bottle of Tequila they want to use up.

I agree with you that this particular 'costume' is racist - and it's quite odd to have a fancy dress party where you tell everyone exactly what to wear anyway? I think that the line with fancy dress is it's ok to dress up as a particular person/concept - coming to a party dressed as Frida Kahlo would be ok - but if your costume is just a national or racial stereotype it isn't, so 'a Mexican' isn't an ok costume.

Will your friendship withstand this ?

You're basically telling your friend how to run her party.

This.

No she's not, she can just say I'm not going to your party as I don't want to dress as a stereotype. If they want to carry on with their racist party they are free to do so.

@Georgeskitchen Of course they will be offended. How can you not see that?!!

A Mexican theme is completely out of order in terms of how its been described. If it was food, drink and music that's one thing but this is offensive.

Definitely message them.

I don't get why the moustaches? There are loads of ways to dress in the country's traditional dress without a moustache. A location themed party isn't inherently racist.

YABU
Cos currently Mexicans are fair game.

How do you know?

These lot don't care for example

Just seems like more white guilt to me.

Mustache or physical features = racist
If there are garments linked to religion or cultural or spiritual beliefs then also no.
A theme as if like you are on a Mexican holiday or restaurant eg music, food, flags, decoration is ok.