Black cats, in much the same way as black people, face discrimination, prejudice, devastating stereotypes, and hate crime violence simply because of the color of their fur.

A shelter in Idaho has banned the adoption of black cats for fear they will be used in satanic rituals or as accessories to Halloween costumes and then abandoned or killed after the holiday is over.

Will the ban hurt an already oppressed and discriminated against marginalized group?  Some say yes!  "Black cats already suffer a stigma because of their color," said Gail Buchwald, vice president of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals shelter in New York City. "Why penalize them any more by limiting the times when they can be adopted?"

The stereotypes and myths about black cats are unfair and based in color bias.  We as a society should work to enlighten ourselves and move toward a society that not only tolerates these darkly pigmented felines, but we should embrace them for all of their glorious black splendor!  We should shout "Black Cat Power" from the highest heights!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!