The petition launched by the non-profit Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) to change the date of Halloween has smashed its original goal, with thousands of people signing up in the last two weeks following an amend to the original request.
The Change.org petition was originally launched towards the end of 2018, proposing that the spooky holiday should be celebrated on the last Saturday in October each year, instead of the movable date of 31 October.
A recent update from the HCA has seen the association change its approach as the amended petition now calls for an additional ‘National Trick or Treat Day’, which will be launched and promoted in partnership with Party City.
Thousands of people have now signed the petition, which cites safety reasons and having more time for celebrating as key reasons for the Saturday celebrations.
The original goal of 75,000 signatures has now been reached, with the current number now standing at 143,000 and climbing.
“Our petition has evolved into a message of unity, acceptance and equality,” read a statement from HCA. “Instead of changing the date that Americans celebrate Halloween, we will be adding an additional day of festivities in the hopes of bringing more people together.”
It continued: “National Trick or Treat Day will take place annually on the last Saturday of October when Americans can participate in community parades, throw neighbourhood parties and opt for daytime Trick or Treating.”
“In a partnership with Party City, we will launch the #ALLoween campaign designed to support the all-day celebration of National Trick or Treat Day AND the time-honored traditions of Halloween on October 31st. With your support, we will create a safer, longer, bigger celebration for ALL by making National Trick or Treat Day official!”
