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Cultural Appropriation vs Appreciation

(Transcript from Tiktok:

Responding to the comment, “I get so confused by what’s cultural appropriation and appreciating a different culture.”

The difference between cultural appropriation and appreciation.

Thank you so much for continuing to ask questions, and I’m so happy I can answer this one.

“I really love your earrings.”

“Thank you. Beading actually has a rich history in ceremonies, gifting, and even the creation of treaties.”

“Oh I don’t care anything about that, I just think they’re pretty, so I’m gonna wear them. Because I can.”

Appreciation is saying that they’re pretty, appropriation is wearing them when they have no cultural significance to you.

“Whatcha doing?”

“I’m hanging up this dream catcher for my son.”

“Can I see it?”

“Uh, sure.”

“This would look really great hanging from my rearview mirror.”

“You fall asleep behind the wheel a lot?”

“No, I just think it’s pretty.”

Appreciation would be asking how it works and using it in a respectful manner. Appropriation, hanging it like it’s just a decor item when really it’s a religious item.

“I’m so glad I was able to pick up some sage from the Powwow this year.”

“Yeah, I love smudging those bad vibes away. I found mine at HomeGoods.”

Appreciation – buy ethically sourced from Natives. Appropriation – that.)


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-Your Friends at Undoing Racism