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Emma Monk
Emma Monk

Not content with trying to "ban" Christmas, now they want trick-or-treating to be banned too?šŸ¤¬ Well, that's what GB News want you to believe, at any ratešŸ™„ And we all know *who* we are meant to imagine is calling for this, right? So let's look at yet another RW-concocted outrage story šŸ§µ1/27

This all began with the Telegraph deciding to publish THREE separate articles about some police forces and local councils offering downloadable "No Trick or Treat" posters for people who didn't want to be disturbed by knocks on their door at night. 2/

Let's take a look at the media claims vs what was actually said by these organisations. Leicestershire Police social media made no reference to religious or cultural beliefs, nor did their website where you could download the poster. 3/

Interestingly, the website also linked to their 2020 and 2021 poster to downloadšŸ‘šŸ» Were we being told to be angry about it then?? No, of course not. This insane Islamophobic culture war nonsense where the Right have to pretend Muslims are trying to ban things is a far more recent phenomenonšŸ™„ 4/

Oadby and Wigston Police, part of Leicestershire Police, did put out a social media post giving some of the many reasons why people may not want to take part Of the seven reasons given, religious and cultural reasons was just one. Cue the Telegraph headlines! Bet they couldn't believe their luck!šŸ™„

They went after Swale Borough Council, in partnership with Kent Police, next. OMG - they mentioned religious reasons too! OUTRAGEOUS! šŸ¤¬

Except, of course, in reality, they gave numerous reasons, with a good, nuanced explanation of who might not want to take part. Religion being just one of many reasons... 7/

And again, it's nothing new - they had similar posters in 2023. And cited religious reasons among the same set of potential reasons why people didn't want to take part You'll never guess who was endorsing them 3 years ago... 8/

Oh, would you look at that! In 2023, Richard Palmer, a current Swale Reform councillor, was explaining why these posters were needed. There was no drama, no Telegraph headlines; it was just such common sense that even Reform councillors could get behind it 9/

The Telegraph then moved on to Thames Valley Police, which GB News anchor Alex Armstrong tweeted about. He was then embarrassingly fact-checked by Thames Valley Police themselves, pointing out they made no mention of religious or cultural beliefs - ouch! 10/

Thames Valley Police actually have a couple of different posters, including one welcoming trick-or-treating And pretty sensible advice on their website.... 11/

And as with the other forces, they also had similar posters in previous years. So how long have these posters been a thing? 12/

At least 22 years, based on what I've found! This really is nothing new. But the propaganda to pretend that "other" religions are behind the posters is absolutely a 2026 phenomenon. 13/

Apparently, Michael Deacon, columnist for the Telegraph, has NO IDEA which religions might have a problem with a Pagan festival involving the glorification of demons, devils, and the undead šŸ¤·ā€ā™€ļø 14/

The original article is equally flummoxed. Maybe it's seen as too Christian by non-Christians... Yeah, that must be it!šŸ¤¦ā€ā™€ļø 15/

So what do Christians think of Halloween? There are plenty of posters available on Pinterest which will help with that one... 16/

US polling showed 10% of people objected to Halloween on religious grounds. And that rises to 27% when they looked at weekly churchgoers 17/

In a different survey, a third of Americans said they avoid Halloween completely or its Pagan elements when considering that aspect of the festival 18/

What about in the UK? 48% of over-65s don't like Halloween. 2/3rds of Britons don't celebrate at all. Having kids knocking on your door at night demanding sweets is not actually some deep-rooted, inalienable British right that you are obliged to take part in! 19/

I will end with a letter I found from Oadby in 2010 (The area where the police force which mentioned Religious reasons in their social media post is from) Six churches came together to explain how Halloween is "in direct opposition to Christianity" 20/

They explained the "emphasis on death, fear, and dread is not something that followers of any of the main faiths would welcome" Cos, of course, other religions also dislike Halloween too. That's not in dispute But Christians are part of that group too A fact the Telegraph were at pains to play dumb about. The Church letter highlighted: "Jews, Muslims, Christians, and others share a strong rejection of the idea of welcoming or worshipping supernatural powers and spirits other than God 22/ And before anyone suggests these are just extreme Christian churches, they included Anglican (Church of England), Methodist, and Baptist Churches. My own local CofE church does not allow Halloween decorations at children's parties in the church hall. It's not a fringe view! 23/ So the Telegraph has created yet another Culture War story, gleefully picked up by GB News, about posters that have existed for decades, primarily aimed at protecting the elderly, half of whom actively dislike Halloween... 24/ They jumped on areas that happen to list multiple reasons for not wanting to take part if they mentioned religious or cultural reasons. One of those areas has documented evidence of their local CHRISTIAN churches explaining why Halloween is antithetical to Christianity 25/ Please remember this pattern as we head towards Remembrance Sunday and then slide seamlessly into "they're banning Christmas" season. "Other" religions aren't trying to ban or stop you from doing whatever it is you want to do... ...No matter what GB News or the Telegraph try and tell you!šŸ™„ As ever, more details and all the links are in: monkdebunks.substack.com It's free to read and subscribe, but paid subscriptions and pumpkin spiced latte donations (buymeacoffee.com) can support me in doing these debunks!šŸ˜Š 27/27

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GB New Website displays a poll asking if trick-or-treating should be banned due to religious beliefs.
Three articles from the Telegraph: "Trick-or-treating can upset religious beliefs, say police." "Halloween is the latest ridiculous victim of woke policing." "Pandering to the perpetually offended has reached a new level of madness."
Extract from the Telegraph: Leicestershire Police has advised that residents may sit out celebrations because they are ā€œobserving religious or cultural beliefs that do not include Halloweā€™enā€. Its advice states that Halloweā€™en revellers should not only steer clear of houses displaying ā€œno trick or treatā€ posters, but also avoid homes not adorned with pumpkins or other decorations. A note from Oadby and Wigston police, which is part of Leicestershire Police force, thanked residents for following advice that would ā€œkeep communities safe, respectful and inclusiveā€.
Leicestershire Police Social Media post: An orange poster states a household is not participating in trick-or-treat activities, requesting no knocking or ringing the bell. "Not keen on trick or treaters knocking on your door this Halloween? šŸŽƒ Let people know before they reach your door. Download and print our ā€˜No Trick or Treatā€™ poster and display it somewhere clearly visible. šŸ‘‰ Download the poster here: https://leicspolice.link/yqpKh Please #CelebrateSafely and respect homes displaying the poster. Help everyone enjoy Halloween in a way that feels comfortable for them. šŸ©µ
Leicestershire Police Instagram post: Halloween is about pumpkins, black cats, ghosts, witches and skeletons for some but remember, not everyone wants to get involved. šŸŽƒ We want to you #CelebrateSafely. šŸ’™ ā— Every year we receive a high volume of non-emergency calls during Halloween, which delay us from helping those in urgent need. To get information, advice or to report non-emergency crimes, please visit our website. #HelpUsHelpYou
Sign reads ā€œNo Thanks Trick or Treatersā€ with a carved pumpkin. Emphasizes not participating in Halloween festivities.
Oadby and Wigston Police facebook post: šŸŽƒ Halloween can be a fun time for many, but not everyone chooses to take part in trick or treating for a number of reasons: ~Young children or babies who may be sleeping. ~Elderly residents who may find repeated door knocks distressing. ~People working night shifts who need to rest.šŸ›Œ ~Individuals with autism, dementia, anxiety, PTSD or other conditions who may find unexpected visitors overwhelming. ~Households with nervous pets.šŸ¶ ~Residents observing religious or cultural beliefs that do not include Halloween. ~People who simply prefer not to take part. If a home is displaying the attached poster, or not displaying any decorations/pumpkins etc, then please respect their wishes and avoid knocking on the door. A little consideration goes a long way in helping everyone enjoy Halloween in a way that feels comfortable for them. Thank you for helping keep our communities safe, respectful and inclusive. šŸ§” #CelebrateSafely
Extract from telegraph article: Swale borough council in Kent, in partnership with Kent Police, has also issued guidance that some households may not take part in Halloweā€™en celebrations for ā€œreligious reasonsā€. Hannah Perkin, chairman of the community committee of the council, said in a statement: ā€œWhile many households are decorating their homes, making their costumes or buying sweets for the trick or treaters, some in Swale may be worrying about Halloweā€™en instead.ā€ She added: ā€œWe need to respect their right to sit out of the festivities.ā€
From Swale Borough Council: People who donā€™t want to take part in Halloween activities this year can let others know thanks to a poster designed by Swale Borough Council.Whilst some people enjoy Halloween, itā€™s not for everyone, as not everyone feels safe opening the door to strangers in the dark.People may be vulnerable, have religious reasons not to take part, or not have the disposable income for decorations and sweets.The council are once again working with Kent police, Kent Neighbourhood Watch and Kent Fire and Rescue Service to share a poster that households can use to show they do not want any trick or treaters to visit them this Halloween.It is easy to use -ā€Æsimply download and print out the poster and put it up in a visible location, such as the door or window of your home.
From Swale Borough Council: Cllr Hannah Perkin, chair of the Community Committee, said:ā€œWhile many households are decorating their homes, making their costumes or buying sweets for the trick or treaters, some in Swale may be worrying about Halloween instead.ā€œWhether they donā€™t feel safe opening the door to strangers, have health issues, are going through financial hardship or donā€™t take part for religious reasons, we need to respect their right to sit out of the festivities.ā€œWhile many turn off lights in their home so they donā€™t get trick or treaters to their door, these posters are a clear sign, in writing, that they arenā€™t taking part and will help make the householders feel more at ease this Halloween.ā€œIt is also important that everyone has responsible fun on Halloween, while everyone loves treats ā€“ the tricks, like throwing eggs, is not acceptable and can ruin peopleā€™s nights, so please be respectful and stay safe.ā€
From article in 2023 from Swale: Homeowners can simply download and print out the poster and place it in a visible location, such as the door or window. A council spokesman said: ā€œThere are many reasons why people may not want to take part, whether it is for religious reasons, you or a loved one are at risk or suffer from poor health or you lack disposable income this year for decorations and sweets. ā€œSome residents may also be scared to open the doors to strangers after dark.ā€
From Swale 2023: Cllr Richard Palmer, chairman of the community committee, said: ā€œRemember, that while getting ā€˜treatsā€™ is fun and exciting, please do not ā€˜trickā€™ any homes that are not participating, behaviour like throwing eggs and flour can spoil the night for all. ā€œWe want everyone to have a pleasant and enjoyable Halloween evening, whether you are celebrating or not. Above an image of Richard Palmer
Richard Palmer's portrait features his affiliation with Reform UK, highlighting his role as a Swale Reform councillor.
Alex Armstrong tweet: Real poster from Buckinghamshire Council and Thames Valley Police. Police have issued a warning to the public that Halloween can upset religious or cultural beliefs ahead of the celebrations this weekend. I'm so tired of all this crap. Above a "no trick-or-treat" poster
Thames Valley Police Twitter post: Hi Alex, This is a poster that can be used by anyone, such as elderly or vulnerable residents, who do not wish to have unexpected callers or be disturbed. At no point have we mentioned that Halloween can upset religious or cultural beliefs.
If you are planning to take your little monsters trick or treating this Halloween, bear in mind that behind some closed doors there may be those who are already scared, vulnerable, or fighting demons of their own. It could be anxiety. It could be a disability. It could be trauma or abuse. There are a few things you should look out for. v Welcome signs ā€¢ Pumpkins in the garden ā€¢ Halloween decorations ā€¢ Sweets by the door ā€¢ Trick or treaters welcome' poster [PDF, 134KB] ā€¢ Signs somebody might not want to be disturbed ā€¢ 'No trick or treating' posters ā€¢ Poster 1 [PDF, 144KB] ā€¢ Poster 2 [PDF, 157KB] ā€¢ Houses and gardens in darkness ā€¢ Shut or locked gates ā€¢ No answer after the first knock or bell ring
A Halloween-themed poster featuring a bat silhouette and spiderwebs, welcoming trick-or-treaters.
Purple poster with a spooky design stating "NO TRICK OR TREAT" and encouraging peaceful observance of Halloween.
Four Halloween-themed posters from various years, displaying messages about not participating in trick-or-treating: - 2017 Ruddington Parish Council - 2016 Neighbourhood Watch - 2010 West Mercia Police - 2004 Cardiff Community Group
Michael Deacon column in Telegraph begins: Are your children excited that itā€™s Halloweā€™en? Eagerly looking forward to knocking on all the neighboursā€™ doors, and getting lots of lovely sweeties? If so, do remind them not to commit any far-Right hate crimes. Itā€™s a serious risk. Or so I gather from police in Leicestershire. Because officers have warned residents that trick-or-treating may offend some peopleā€™s ā€œreligious beliefsā€. Strangely, however, they didnā€™t say whose. Which is a pity, because Iā€™d be fascinated to know which faiths deem trick-or-treating to be a crime against their god, or gods. Could officers point us to the ancient holy text which pronounces on the iniquity of pumpkins, broomsticks and plastic vampire fangs?
Extract from the original Telegraph piece: The nature of religious objection is not explained by the authorities, but many faith groups could have theological objections to partaking in celebrations, as it could be seen as too Christian by non-Christians, or too pagan by Christians.
A decorated pumpkin features a cross and a scripture reference, stating the household does not celebrate Halloween. Joshua 24:15: ...But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD Thank you
Halloween poster: TRICK OR TREAT? I DON'T PARTICIPATE BECAUSE IT DOES NOT GLORIFY GOD. 1 Corinthians 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31 KJV SAME WORLD. DIFFERENT CHOICES. I CHOOSE WHAT HONORS GOD.
Poll results show 89% of respondents have no religious objections to Halloween, while 11% do. Data collected October 23-26, 2006.
Bar chart showing percentages of religious objections to Halloween among different church attendance groups, highlighting higher objections for frequent attendees. 27% of those who attend church weekly. 8% amongst those who attend church nearly weekly or monthly 3% amongst those who seldom or never attend church
A chart shows survey results on Americans' attitudes toward Halloween's pagan aspects. When you consider the pagan elements of Halloween, which is closer to your attitude? - 59%: It's all fun. - 21%: Try to avoid Halloween completely. - 14%: Try to avoid the pagan elements. - 6%: Not sure.
The chart shows British opinions on Halloween, with younger generations expressing more positivity compared to older age groups.
Bar chart displays reasons why two-thirds of Britons don't celebrate Halloween, with a carved pumpkin illustrating the theme. - 26%: Not interested, don't like it. - 20%: I'm too old, it's for children. - 10%: It's an American tradition. - 8%: Too commercialised. - 7%: I'm busy that day. - 6%: I've never celebrated. - 4%: It goes against my religious beliefs. - 3%: It's unsafe, encourages antisocial behaviour. - 3%: I don't like what it represents. - 2%: It's a waste of money or time. - 1%: It's not practical where I live. - 10%: Other.
While for many, Hallowe'en is an occasion for harmless pranks and funny costumes, it carries at least three negative connotations: ā€¢ In antithesis to the light and life celebrated at All Saints, evokes darkness and death. Wiccans understand the night before Samhain (1s November) as a time to invite the dead back into the world of the living. This reversal of Christian resurrection hope places Hallowe'en in direct opposition to Christianity. ā€¢ There is much in the celebrations of other faiths that Christians can welcome. Festivals of light resonate with aspects of Christian theology and other festivals that commemorate the birth of prophets, saints and events in history are worthy of our respect. But beneath Hallowe'en's fun, its emphasis on death, fear and dread is not something that followers of any of the main faiths would welcome. Jews, Muslims, Christians and others share a strong rejection of the idea of welcoming or worshipping supernatural powers and spirits other than God.
A glass of whipped pumpkin spice drink sits before a carved jack-o'-lantern, with coffee beans and cinnamon sticks scattered around.

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