Campuses tighten Halloween security, costume rules

Universities and local authorities are taking added precautions around Halloween, including increased patrols after a student-following incident near University of Utah Greek Row and rules at Florida State’s stadium barring face masks during entry and fake weapons. At FSU, nearby bars are also restricting full-face masks and costume props, while Florida A&M is boosting security after a recent campus shooting. Beyond safety, campuses are debating how to address costumes viewed as culturally offensive: some universities have held events warning against cultural appropriation, while critics argue such guidance can chill student expression. Mental health advocates in Australia have separately urged retailers to stop selling straitjacket costumes, saying they stigmatize people with mental illness; Bunnings withdrew one costume after criticism, while advocates said similar products remained available elsewhere.