Exploring the Fine Line Between Cultural Appropriation and Cultural Appreciation

As global citizens we have a right to a comfortable place in this world, and a responsibility to contribute to the preservation of this same world, in which others may too feel comfortable. In the aftermath of global development, it is unacceptable to choose to remain uneducated. In many ways, the world is ‘shrinking’ as the effects of globalisation have propelled this beautifully diverse planet into a further mixing pot of cultures. Martin Luther King Jr once wisely noted that “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” More than ever, we are in a position that requires us to appreciate the abundance of diversity we are so fortunately immersed in. With a progressive attitude, the maturity to learn from our mistakes, and the willingness to appreciate cultural diversity, we can endeavour to be that much closer to peaceful coexistence.

When breaking down the terms “cultural appropriation” and “cultural appreciation” we inevitably see that there is a fragile sheet between the two, and that is often education. As culturally appreciating is a more straightforward concept to understand, we can note this as being the desire to gain knowledge and explore another culture, through an educative lens. Opposingly, cultural appropriation is when no educational consideration is taken, and people are often seen to steal or ‘cherry pick’ aspects of another culture without any prior considerations. One may observe a non-Indian person wearing traditional, Indian clothing to an Indian wedding, as a display of cultural appreciation in taking part of a cultural celebration from a respectful and educated perspective. However, dressing up as a Native American for a music festival, with traditional headdresses and clothes, is an evident example of cultural appropriation, as the selection of this certain part of Indigenous culture has been taken detrimentally out of context, and used as a costume for personal profit.

Other people's cultures are not your costume.

Appropriation tends to romanticize or sexualize certain cultural elements, thus, it can perpetuate stereotypes and racism. More often than not, it drowns out the voices of people who belong to a given culture, by giving outsiders who’ve appropriated it more space. Kim Kardashian famously wore cornrows to a red carpet event, coining them, “Bo Derek braids” referencing the white actresses' hairstyle associated with her role as Jenny Hanley in the 1979 film "10." This not only a way for a Kim Kardashian to profit off of a hairstyle rooted historically in black culture, but entirely undermines the culture as she suggests that the hairstyle originates with the actress, and is dismissive of its true origins being in the history of slavery.

When endeavouring to be culturally appreciative, it is a good idea to first begin examining one’s own culture. By looking at an aspect of your culture that lies as the foundation of your identity, consider how you may feel if, not only that was then used by others, but it was used for their personal gain. Most people would be deeply hurt by this, as the loss of identity is a severe feeling, particularly when forcefully removed by someone else. When beginning to understand and explore another culture, asking questions and seeking advice directly from a reliable source tied to that culture is the best approach. With the intent to learn, understand and improve we may be destined for growth. Some may consider this to be a ‘subjective’ matter as opinions on offence change depending on the person. Thus, the best solution that can be offered is to remain informed and considerate. While we all make mistakes, the difference lies between those who are willing to learn and develop from them, compared to others who use it as an excuse to justify a personal motive. Cultural exchange is mutual.The openness to share your own culture coupled with an interest with learning about others is necessary for adequate cultural appreciation.

In an interview with Insider last year, Ruby Aryiku, the cofounder of the Black social marketing agency VAMP, described that 2020 saw an immense shift towards understanding cultural appropriation, and explained that everyone should be mindful of listening to those who do find offence. She notes that "If you're genuinely interested in showing appreciation, then do the work to understand it. If you don't have the time to learn, it's likely that said 'appreciation' will probably not be appreciated." The predominant message to take away from this regards your intentions. You know what they are, and as a globalised world, we should hope that they ultimately lie in cultural appreciation.

By Charlotte Rodney 12E