Papa Legba and cultural appropriation?

Question

I really love American Horror Story and the character Papa legba! I think he is super scary and a perfect concept for Halloween.
Although I know the AHS representation of him is not accurate and I don’t want to be “that” person being culturally insensitive.
I want to dress as him for Halloween but am not sure if it’s ok.
Can someone please provide insight?

Answer

Just don’t do black face and you’re fine.

Answer

I’m conflicted
Here’s why, part of me says since he is a character on a show it’s okay to go as the character portrayal of him. Just don’t paint your skin black. 
I’m of Haitian descent, not that I’d personally find it offensive because he’s spooky spirit being, I feel that he has a home in halloween. I do know Vodou is very spiritual and once (and still is) demonized. Some of the older women in my family take it seriously. Which leads me to ask you, would you dress up as Buddha, Lakshmi, or any other spiritual deity and still feel like you didn’t cross a line?

Answer

A quick google search tells me its a part of Haitian voodoo. So. Tread carefully.

Answer

Papa Legba is probably my favourite AHS character. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with dressing up as any character.

Answer

Just here to say I LOVE AHS!!! And, I don’t think it would matter as long as you don’t paint yourself black. He’s such a great character....great costume idea! With that being said, you’ll still probably have someone who thinks it’s not a good idea...overly sensitive. Will you ppplllleeeeaaasssee post a pic of the costume??

Also, if it’s offensive and wrong....you won’t get away with it 🤣

Answer

Don’t do it girl. You don’t want to mess with voodoo even if it’s for fun. My aunt swore she saw him before (my family has a past of doing these things). Nope.

Answer

Thankyou all for your advice!
I decided to dress up as Papa Legba (AHS Depiction) and made it clear when people asked what I was, and that I was the AHS depiction, and explained the background of the TRUE papa legba and the distinction. He is one of my favourite characters and I received lots of compliments on the creativity behind the idea! 
Thanks girls xo 😙

Answer

I wouldn't do it, simply because I see voodoo & witchcraft being very real and even though it's a costume I wouldn't play around with any of that. Maybe it's just because I've had family that had to be cleansed because of witchcraft and my father in law died because of it, so my family doesn't play with anything like that....

Answer

I’ve never seen the show, and it’s not my culture, so I can’t really say. 
I’ve always found diaspora religion interesting though. I did some reading on the topic awhile ago, and I saw that many who do practice were upset he was being used that way at all. He’s not a villain by their beliefs. 
I guess as long as you’re clearly distinguishing that you’re the character, and not the Loa, and don’t do something ignorant like blackface, it’s your decision. 🤷🏼‍♀️

Answer

Never heard of him sorry

Papa Legba and cultural appropriation?

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