Sedro Woolley resident calls for practical charity over Halloween traditions

Michael Waite, a Sedro Woolley resident, published a letter to the editor on Oct. 23, 2026, urging community members to rethink their Halloween observances. He argued that local resources are better spent addressing immediate human needs than on seasonal festivities.

Waite contrasted the global conditions of hunger and war with local spending habits. He noted that people in conflict zones lack shelter and sustenance while living in difficult conditions. In Whatcom County, he said, residents spend large amounts of time and money on holiday traditions.

The letter specifically targeted common Halloween activities. Waite questioned the logic of decorating homes to look frightening and carving pumpkins into lanterns. He suggested that the pumpkins could instead be used as food for homeless individuals. He described the holiday as a celebration of the weird rather than a meaningful observance.

Waite connected the imagery of death and horror in the holiday to current news events. He pointed to wars targeting helpless people and the resulting victims with severe wounds. He asked what mental illness leads people to celebrate the fall with such images while suffering continues elsewhere.

He also criticized local political leadership. Waite described many leaders in the country as corrupt and heartless. He compared their behavior to the monsters depicted in Hollywood films and Halloween costumes. He suggested that the holiday serves as a distraction from the actions of these officials.

The letter concluded with a direct call for action. Waite advised residents to treat less fortunate neighbors with donations they can use. He recommended providing practical help rather than giving children sugar highs. The letter was signed by Michael Waite of Sedro Woolley.