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
