Examining the Harmful Effects: Why is Cultural Appropriation Bad?
From fashion to film, music, art, and even food, an appropriation of elements from cultures around the world is almost inevitable in the contemporary world. However, when these cultural elements are selectively taken without proper understanding, appreciation, or respect for their original context, it can lead to cultural appropriation – a practice that has become controversial in recent times.
Cultural appropriation is essentially the adoption or use of symbols, elements, or practices of one culture by a member of another culture, often without permission or understanding of the original culture. This practice has been denounced by many, but why is it considered bad? This article will examine some of the harmful effects of cultural appropriation, and delve deeper into the topic.
What is Cultural Appropriation?
As mentioned earlier, cultural appropriation is a contentious practice that involves taking elements from a culture that is not one’s own. This could be anything from using a native headdress as a fashion accessory, to taking a sacred symbol and using it as a tattoo design.
It is essential to note that cultural sharing, on the other hand, is a completely different practice that involves the exchange of cultural elements between different cultures in a respectful and mutually beneficial manner. In cultural sharing, cultures give and take, and it is often a way of promoting diversity and understanding.
Why is Cultural Appropriation Bad?
Cultural appropriation is often viewed as problematic because it often trivializes the practices, symbols, or elements taken, by ignoring the original context and cultural significance. It also reinforces power dynamics by giving members of dominant cultures power over members of marginalized cultures, who may have been oppressed or exploited.
One of the most significant issues with cultural appropriation is that it can lead to cultural erasure, where the original meanings, histories, and practices of a culture are lost or forgotten. This can be detrimental to the continued existence of the said culture, and it can lead to a lack of appreciation and respect for the affected culture.
Moreover, cultural appropriation is often fueled by stereotypes, prejudice, and exoticism, making it more degrading and harmful to the culture in question. It can also lead to the commodification of cultural heritage, where cultural elements are seen as marketable commodities rather than symbols of living culture.
Examples of Cultural Appropriation
To better understand what constitutes cultural appropriation, here are some common examples that showcase the problematic practice:
- Native American Headdresses: Wearing a Native American headdress as a fashion accessory is often seen as an act of cultural appropriation as it disregards the sacred and spiritual importance of the headdress.
- Blackface: Painting one’s face black to portray a Black person is not only offensive and insensitive, but it reduces members of the Black community to a stereotype and caricature.
- Henna Tattoos: While henna tattoos have been a part of South Asian culture for centuries, using them as a fashion statement or temporary body art is often seen as a form of cultural appropriation that disregards the rituals and cultural significance behind the practice.
- Cultural-themed Parties: Dressing up in stereotypical costumes or throwing cultural-themed parties that promote cultural stereotyping are prime examples of cultural appropriation that perpetuates harmful narratives.
Conclusion
Cultural appropriation is a delicate subject, and understanding why it is bad requires an appreciation of cultural heritage, diversity, and the impacts of historical and systemic power dynamics. While it is impossible to avoid cultural sharing in today’s interconnected world, it is crucial to ensure that any adoption of cultural elements is done so in a respectful and informed manner. Remember, cultural appropriation is not an act of appreciation, but rather an act of erasure and exploitation.
