I mostly disagree, every time I visited a country and wore the cultural dress, the local culture has been very supportive and appreciative, and I’ve been able to enter into more interesting conversations because I’m willing to engage in their culture on a more visceral level.
I understand cultural sensitivity, but I have yet to encounter a culture that does not want to be recognized, particularly for their notable and impressive achievements.
Or if their clothing looks f****** cool, like in Morocco or Japan. China. Or the states. Or Vietnam. Or Germany(goofy but still fun). Malaysia.
Everywhere. Everywhere I have talked to people, they appreciate the appreciation of their culture.
To me, the term “cultural appropriation” refers to things like schools having kids make chicken feather “headdresses” to “celebrate” Native American Day, or wearing a religious symbol in a disrespectful way. Even though people like the person in the post can be annoying, I think it’s still progress that we’re able to have these discussions, and I think it’s too bad that for many people the takeaway seems to be “cultural appropriation is never problematic.” I’d take the person from the post any day over someone who thinks they’re immune from criticism when they unintentionally engage in behavior that truly is disrespectful.
No goddamn way.
We’ve been having these discussions, as far as history is aware, since we started writing things down.
Give me the rebuttal friend any day.
I’ve been to too many countries, and what you’re alleging is simply and practically incorrect.
Cultures appreciate genuine cultural appreciation.
But cultural appreciation is not what is meant by “cultural appropriation.” Cultural appropriation is when it’s done in a disrespectful manner.
I grew up with some utterly racist experiences in school – the feather “headdress” and cardboard tipis, the sombreros on Cinco de Mayo, etc.
I wish I’d had someone at the time to explain why that was wrong.
Thats… kinda what I’m talking about? Cultural appropriation is most often used in a context of why you SHOULDNT engage in things you like about another culture
You’re condemning the appreciation of another culture, which every culture will tell you is welcome and appreciated.
So it is kind of what you’re talking about, except you’re missing the main point.
IM not condemning the appreciation of other cultures. I’m saying the concept of Cultural Appropriation leads to the thought process of the woman who’s tweet started this thread more than it leads to how to be better respectful in how you appreciate things. A person wouldnt “appopriate” anything unless something about it found interest in them. Just general lessons in respect in general are far more useful
