Cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation walk a fine line — one can be a celebration, the other a theft. Imagine culture as a sacred tapestry, woven with the stories, struggles and triumphs of generations. When someone borrows from it without understanding, credit or respect, threads are yanked, and meaning is lost. But when someone admires, learns and honors a culture, the tapestry grows richer, interwoven with new connections.
Before diving into examples, it is important to define the term. Cultural appropriation is not just about borrowing — it is about taking aspects of a culture, often one that has been historically marginalized, without understanding or respecting its significance.
From fashion runways to Halloween costumes, cultural appropriation appears in many forms. But what does it look like in practice? Let’s explore some of the most common examples.
On the other hand, cultural appreciation offers a different perspective. Rather than taking without understanding, it involves learning, respecting and celebrating cultures in meaningful ways. But how does this work in real life?
So what does true appreciation look like? It could be as simple as learning the history behind a tradition or supporting artisans who create cultural items with deep-rooted meaning. Here are some examples of appreciation done right.
Some cultural and religious traditions evolve over time, becoming mainstream or even commercialized. Holidays like Christmas and Día de los Muertos have seen this shift — so what does that mean for their original significance?
While cultural appropriation is often discussed in an American context, the conversation changes when we look globally. Different histories, power structures, and societal norms shape the way cultures interact. Would the debate look different elsewhere?
As younger generations grow up in a more interconnected world, is there hope for better cultural understanding? With increased awareness and education, the future of cultural exchange might be more about respect than exploitation.
