Sarah Palin, Barack Obama Effigies Set Off Controversy, Debate

According to recent reports here at CBS2 online, the Secret Service is investigating a Halloween display in West Hollywood which includes an effigy of Sarah Palin. There seems to be some question about whether the effigy is actually allowed as an example of free speech or whether it constitutes a hate crime. Those upset by the display ask how people would feel if a similar display was set up and used Obama being hanged in effigy, making connections to lynch mobs and hangings. Videos of the effigy reveal a mannequin dressed in a red suit, similar to ones worn by Palin, handing from a noose.

Even as the controversy rages, some people had their photos snapped next to the effigy and (according to the link above) one woman noted that she'd be using it on a Christmas card! Even those who put up the Palin effigy admit that they'd probably have more violent reactions if a similar display included Obama. It is hard to imagine an effigy of a black man, presidential candidate or not without bringing up images of lynching and other racial incidents. But is it more acceptable, let alone "humorous" to put up an effigy of Sarah Palin, using a Halloween display as the reason? That is the crux of the dilemma.

Is this an appropriate image for trick or treaters to see as they come to someone's door? Is it humorous - as some insist - or tasteless? These are the questions being asked by those viewing the Palin effigy. As a parent, I wouldn't be inclined to have a child go up to the door of anyone displaying an effigy of Barack Obama or Sarah Palin. I'd steer clear of any house where an effigy of a political candidate was being displayed. Speaking only for myself, I think this could cause anger and possibly even worse -in an already tense election year.

Obama effigy being investigated

Palin isn't the only politician represented in effigy. According to a link here at an ABC affiliate site, WTVQ, an Obama effigy is also being investigated. This one may not be linked to Halloween, making it potentially more representative of a hate crime. In that case, the University of Kentucky President (where the hanging figure was found) sent out an email to let people know it was not acceptable.

Obama, McCain, Palin and Biden Halloween pumpkins instead of effigies

Obama pumpkin templates are popular, as are McCain, Palin and Biden Halloween pumpkins. Instead of representing a symbolic representation of a person hanging from a rope, political pumpkin templates can be a way of showing support for a candidate, similar to a yard sign. Sources of McCain Halloween templates - or Obama templates - can be found here . Political pumpkins show support for candidates and (hopefully) don't offend anyone.

McCain, Palin, Obama, Biden Halloween costumes instead of Palin or other effigies

I also hope that those handing out candy to trick or treaters will understand that Halloween is not a time to be divisive but to accept differing political beliefs and respect the political costumes that people wear (assuming they don't cross the line into bad taste or hate). Having written about the campaign recently, I do want to note that some comments were attacking, even when neither Obama nor McCain were being attacked in the articles.

Just writing about politics can bring out anger and hatred in some. However, nearly every Halloween someone shows up at our door dressed as a former President or candidate. So far, people seem to handle it with tact and consideration. I hope this year will be no exception and that acceptance of political diversity will reign this year, even as the 2008 election draws near.

Barack Obama Halloween costumes (and those representing McCain, Palin and Biden) can be found at various online sites. This search site at Buzzillions is a good start, found here

Instead of a Sarah Palin or other effigy, consider other 2008 election Halloween decorations

Although Barack Obama or John McCain political signs could be created or made with a Halloween theme. Another possibility? Check out the free John McCain and Barack Obama paper dolls here . They could easily be enlarged and used as part of a Halloween display or group of decorations.

Sources:

Report: Secret Service Investigating Palin Effigy, Oct 28, CBS2 here

Presidential Candidate Pumpkin Carving Stencils 2008, found here

Effigy of Obama found hanging from tree, WTVQ36, found here

Barack Obama, John McCain paper dolls: here