Knowing the Difference Between Cultural Appropriating and Appreciating

Despite continued restrictions due to COVID-19, there is nothing wrong with getting into the spirit and dressing up for Halloween. Choose a fun costume to share with your small group of friends while maintaining a physical distance. It can be fun to talk about what you will dress as and what type of makeup you will use. However, it should be made clear that Halloween is never the opportunity to appropriate someone’s culture. Not on Halloween or any other day. 

So, what does it mean to appropriate someone’s culture? Whether or not you notice it, appropriating a culture happens when you make use of cultural items, ideas, practices, etc. in any way. For example, buying and using a piece of clothing or jewelry that may be a fashion statement to you, may actually hold significant value in a culture. Holding your own personal interest over cultures different than your own is a big part of what dictates cultural appropriation. 

Not everyone chooses to intentionally appropriate or offend anyone. Yet, this should not excuse us from taking the time to learn more. Learning to understand and be open-minded about a culture is a skill that we want to gain and execute in our lives. That is where we can begin to learn to appreciate one’s culture. Appreciation starts by actively listening to and learning about another culture in an effort to broaden your own perspective and to connect. 

Now that you know about the difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation, you can ask yourself more questions.

1. Would I be offended if someone were to take a part of my own culture for their personal gain without truly understanding?

Ask yourself if you would be happy to see someone take something significant to you and your culture and use it simply for the purpose of feeling “cool” or getting likes? Understanding how this would make you feel can give you a sense of how others may feel as well. This self-reflection can help you examine your own culture and feelings. 

2. What can I do to better understand another culture?

Listening. This is the first and easiest way to begin understanding and appreciating. Listening to the people who are part of that culture and create the stories you hear. Use this information to broaden your perspective of the world and the cultures in it. 

3. Did I take the time to research the significance and context of the item before buying it?

It does not take long to research an item on the internet. What does this symbol mean to the culture? When is it appropriate to wear? If you truly have an interest in appreciating another culture and traditions, you will make the time to learn about why certain pieces carry significance. 

4. Am I willing to share and teach about my culture?

This is an important step when it comes to connecting with other cultures. Not only do you get to learn about their values, but they also can hear about yours. This creates a mutual exchange and awareness of each other. If you are interested in learning about their culture it is likely they feel the same way. 

Be mindful of understanding and appreciating another’s heritage. Do it appropriately and intentionally. Make sure to find a way to include a mask in your costume.