The Debate on Cultural Appropriation: Is it Wrong to Wear a Kimono?
Cultural appropriation is a hotly contested topic, with people on both sides voicing their opinions. But what does it mean, and is it really wrong to wear a kimono if you’re not Japanese? In this article, we will explore the debate on cultural appropriation and analyze why some people view it as problematic.
Introduction
The issue of cultural appropriation has become a highly debated topic in recent years, with people from different cultures and ethnicities disagreeing on what constitutes respectful cultural exchange versus appropriation. This article will focus on one aspect of this debate: whether it is ethical or not to wear a kimono, a traditional Japanese garment, if you are not Japanese.
Body
The primary argument against wearing a kimono when you are not Japanese is that it is cultural appropriation. Cultural appropriation is the taking of something from one culture and using it inappropriately in another. Some people view it as a form of theft or colonizing. These individuals believe that the cultural owners of the item should be the only ones granted access to it, as they are the only people who can truly appreciate its significance. Supporters of this argument believe that no one should wear a kimono unless they have a full understanding of the cultural significance behind it and the respect that is due.
Those who are against the idea, however, contend that cultural exchange is a natural part of human history, and that to stop it is to limit our society’s diversity. They believe that if a culture has something unique or beautiful, then it should be shared with others freely. They assert that adopting other people’s traditions is not the same as colonizing or stealing and that when cultures interact, it can lead to a profound appreciation for each other’s cultures and beliefs.
Supporters of the latter argument note that the line between cultural exchange and cultural appropriation is a difficult one to define. When does a particular piece of clothing become solely associated with a single culture, or when does the expression of someone else’s customs become offensive? According to them, the act of wearing a kimono should not be seen as an act of disrespect to the Japanese people or culture, as long as the wearer is paying homage to the garment’s history.
In contrast, the anti-cultural appropriation stance makes the point that the act of wearing a kimono can be seen as a colonial practice that reinforces the negative aspects of western culture that disrespects other cultures. From this point of view, by dressing up in a kimono people of western culture are taking away essential customs and tradition while not truly respecting the significance of it.
Conclusion
The debate over cultural appropriation and the wearing of a kimono is a nuanced discussion that requires thoughtful examination from both sides. Competing ideas of cultural appreciation versus appropriation will continue to divide opinions. While there may not be a definitive answer as to whether or not it is wrong to wear a kimono, it is essential to reflect upon the implications of our choices. Ultimately, the way forward may rest in how we approach the topic, with a willingness to listen to each other and understand each other’s points of view.
In conclusion, while the idea of cultural appropriation is complex, the act of wearing a kimono without the necessary knowledge and respect can be seen as an abuse of a culture that isn’t our own. Instead of causing more conflict, it’s crucial to be mindful of our actions and their implications, as we continue to celebrate other cultures as part of our own.
References:
Neville, H. A., Lilly, R. L., Duran, G., Lee, R. M., & Browne, L. (2000). The cultural appropriateness of Euro-American counseling. European Journal of Counseling Psychology, 2(2), 139-155.
Frohlich, W. (1993). Non-Chinese art and culture, the Five Arts of China, and the debate over cultural appropriation. Journal of the American Oriental Society, 113(3), 442-463
Okazaki, S. (1997). Culture and disability: implications for counseling, intervention, and advocacy with racial/ethnic minorities. Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, 25(2), 81-94.
