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Cultural Appropriation

Cultural appropriation occurs when elements of one culture are used by a more dominant culture without understanding or respecting their origins, often leading to a loss of meaning and exploitation. Key characteristics include power imbalances, lack of understanding, and profit without permission. To avoid cultural appropriation, individuals should educate themselves, seek permission, give credit, support authentic sources, and consider power dynamics.

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20 views2 pages

Cultural Appropriation

Cultural appropriation occurs when elements of one culture are used by a more dominant culture without understanding or respecting their origins, often leading to a loss of meaning and exploitation. Key characteristics include power imbalances, lack of understanding, and profit without permission. To avoid cultural appropriation, individuals should educate themselves, seek permission, give credit, support authentic sources, and consider power dynamics.

Uploaded by

lakimimomi
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Cultural Appropriation

1. Definition
●​ Cultural appropriation happens when elements of one culture are taken or used by members of
another culture, especially when the borrowing culture is more dominant or privileged, and the original
meaning or respect for the element is lost.​

●​ It often involves using cultural symbols, clothing, language, music, or practices without
understanding or respecting their origins.​

Example:​
Wearing a Native American headdress as a fashion accessory without knowing its sacred meaning.

2. Key Characteristics
1.​ Power Imbalance – Often involves a dominant culture borrowing from a marginalized one.​

2.​ Lack of Understanding – The borrowed element is used out of context.​

3.​ Loss of Meaning – Original cultural significance is ignored or changed.​

4.​ Profit without Permission – Borrowers may gain social or financial benefit without crediting the source
culture.​

3. Examples
●​ Fashion brands selling traditional Filipino barong or indigenous weaves without consulting or
compensating local artisans.​

●​ Non-Asian people using chopsticks or kimono purely as a “trend” without knowing their cultural
meaning.​

●​ Using tribal tattoos because they “look cool” without knowing they are sacred symbols.​

●​ Adopting Black hairstyles (e.g., cornrows, dreadlocks) without acknowledging their cultural roots.​

4. Difference Between Cultural Appropriation and Cultural Appreciation


Cultural Appropriation Cultural Appreciation

Takes without permission or Learns about and respects the


respect culture
Ignores historical and social Understands and honors traditions
context

Often for personal gain or Supports and credits the source


trend community

Can cause harm or offense Builds mutual respect

5. Why It’s a Problem


●​ Disrespect – Misuses sacred or meaningful cultural items.​

●​ Exploitation – Profits from others’ culture without giving back.​

●​ Erasure – Overshadows the voices and work of people from that culture.​

●​ Reinforces Inequality – Reflects historic oppression where dominant groups benefit at the expense of
marginalized ones.​

6. How to Avoid Cultural Appropriation


1.​ Educate Yourself – Learn the history and meaning behind cultural elements.​

2.​ Ask Permission – Especially for sacred practices or symbols.​

3.​ Give Credit – Acknowledge the source culture.​

4.​ Support Authentic Sources – Buy directly from artisans or cultural practitioners.​

5.​ Consider Power Dynamics – Be aware of privilege and inequality between cultures.​

7. Real-Life Case
●​ Bad Example: A festival attendee wears an Igorot headdress just for photos, calling it “cool headgear.”​

●​ Better Example: A tourist buys traditional Igorot weaving from local artisans after learning its history
and purpose, and wears it respectfully in cultural events.​

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