Every year at the How Weird St. Faire in San Francisco, several Howard St. blocks transform into a magical sweetly freaky village of dj stages/floats, art in alleys, local designers, mythological realms, fabulous costumes.  Streets taken over for public creative expression, dancing on the concrete in the sunlight is a beautiful thing. One of my favorite things. This year, amidst the dazzle of many outfits, I was repeatedly struck by how many people were wearing large feathered headdresses (along with hot pants, platforms, ironic t-shirts, etc.).  White people dressing up in Plains Indian style war bonnets – what is going on with this costume choice? What to say? I was recently discussing this phenomenon (its many manifestations and the sensitive discomfort of calling it out) with a friend who is a long time solidarity activist with Native land-based struggles, and she and a colleague have just created a fantastic pamphlet on exactly this! Excellent resource filled with vital information, critical context, and a warm invitation to become more aware.  Not about shutting down self-expression – about becoming more mindful, connected and engaged.  Made to be able to easily hand out at festivals, or anywhere else.

Here it is, hot off the press:

Is My Indian Headdress Offensive- PDF

(also in printable pamphlet layout in our Resources section)

“Congratulations dear fellow human! Your headdress has afforded you the learning opportunity of a lifetime! Your consideration is humbly requested.”