Cultural Appropriation
The topic of cultural appropriation can be controversial at times. There are many layers to it, and approaching this topic requires humility, sensitivity and kindness.
Before we dig in, please pay attention to what you feel as you think about the concept of cultural appropriation. Is it a term you’ve heard before? Does it cause some resistance in you? Why? Have you heard other people’s opinions about this, and either agreed or disagreed? Do you feel indifferent about this topic?
Let’s consider everything we have covered up to this point:
- The importance of culture to our well-being
- Your involvement in culture
- The damage colonization had and continues to have on Indigenous culture
- The way history interconnects with culture, and the need for people groups who have been oppressed to have a strong sense of culture
How Do You Know When It’s Cultural Appropriation?
One of the big arguments that comes up with the topic of cultural appropriation, is that nothing is original. It often sounds like this: “All cultures borrow from each other.” “Sharing ideas is unavoidable.” In this way, some people try to reframe cultural appropriation as a form of cultural appreciation. It is true that ideas are shared between cultures. A lot of us are grateful that the Italians shared pizza, bolognese, and espresso! The furniture industry is very influenced by Scandinavian style. The British have very much influenced the music scene throughout the years. Many pop bands today are influenced by the Beatles, 80s British pop, and the 90s Manchester music scene. Is it a big deal if you pick up a Beatles, Rolling Stones, or Ramones knock-off t-shirt at your local big box store just because you think it’s cool, even though you’re not a fan? Likely not. Your purchase probably won’t affect the band members or their descendants. A key factor here is that they do not have a history of being oppressed by society.
Getting Clear About Cultural Appropriation
The following is a great definition of cultural appropriation. It’s from an article by Christine Nguyen (chef, writer, and activist) called Not Just a Sandwich: A Cultural Perspective on Banh Mi:
Cultural appropriation happens when a dominant culture adopts the practices of another culture for monetary or societal gain. The marginalized culture however, remains stigmatized for maintaining their cultural practices and are constantly pressured to assimilate into the dominant culture.
It is likely to be cultural appropriation when a practice, art, or even food that is considered sacred to a marginalized culture is borrowed from, or changed for personal gain without understanding the cultural significance of the practice for its originators.
| Smudging is a sacred, powerful practice.
According to the Indigenous Corporate Training website, smudging is traditionally a ceremony for purifying or cleansing the soul of negative thoughts of a person or place. |
| There are four elements involved in a smudge.
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