Why Using Dream Catchers for Aesthetic Purposes Constitutes Cultural Appropriation
Dream catchers are intricate, handmade objects that have been used for centuries by various Indigenous cultures in North America. Historically, they were created as a means of protection, intended to catch any bad dreams or negative energies that might trouble the sleeper. However, in recent years, dream catchers have become a popular item in mainstream popular culture, with people using them as a decorative item to adorn their homes or accessorize their clothing.
While the use of dream catchers in this way might seem innocent enough, it can actually constitute cultural appropriation. Cultural appropriation is the act of taking parts of a culture that is not one’s own and using them for one’s own purposes, often without any understanding or respect for the culture or its significance. In the case of dream catchers, the widespread use of these objects as an aesthetic item, without any understanding of their cultural significance, can undermine and disrespect the Indigenous cultures from which they originated.
The Significance of Dream Catchers in Indigenous Cultures
To understand why using dream catchers for aesthetic purposes can constitute cultural appropriation, it is important to understand the significance of these objects in Indigenous cultures. Many Indigenous tribes believe that the dream catcher has powerful spiritual properties, designed to protect sleepers from bad dreams and negative energy. These objects are often associated with specific tribes and have their own unique meanings and interpretations.
Indigenous people have been using dream catchers for centuries, and the act of making them is often passed down from one generation to another. As a result, the creation and use of dream catchers are deeply ingrained in these cultures, and they hold significant cultural and spiritual meaning. When non-Indigenous people use these objects as a decoration without understanding their significance, they strip them of their cultural significance and turn them into just another trendy accessory.
The Harmful Effects of Cultural Appropriation
Cultural appropriation can have harmful effects on Indigenous cultures and communities. When non-Indigenous people take aspects of Indigenous culture without understanding or respecting their significance, they can perpetuate harmful stereotypes, misrepresentations, and erasure. Moreover, when Indigenous cultures are reduced to nothing more than fashion trends and decorative items, it can undermine the cultural heritage and identity of these communities.
It is essential to recognize and understand the cultural significance of practices or objects and to show respect of their origins and significance. The use of dream catchers for aesthetic purposes can constitute not only careless cultural appropriation, but it can also perpetuate harm that has been done for centuries to Indigenous communities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of dream catchers as decorative items can constitute cultural appropriation. Without an understanding and acknowledgement of their cultural significance, decorative usage of dream catchers strips them of their spiritual purpose and disrespects the Indigenous communities from which they originated. The act of cultural appropriation, represented by the improper and non-respectful use of meaningful cultural representation, is demeaning to the people who hold these beliefs and can cause lasting damage. It is essential to recognize and understand the harm that cultural appropriation can do and act accordingly to prevent further harm.
