Appropriating culture is a contentious issue that has been increasingly brought to the forefront of societal discussions in recent years. It refers to the adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without proper acknowledgment or understanding of its significance. Although this practice may seem harmless to some, it has deep roots in history and can have severe consequences for the marginalized cultures whose traditions are being adapted. In this article, we will delve into the history of cultural appropriation, its effects, and examples of its prevalence in society.

The roots of cultural appropriation can be traced back to colonialism. When European powers colonized countries in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, they not only imposed their political and economic dominance but also forcibly assimilated the native cultures. This led to the erasure of indigenous traditions and customs, and the dominant European culture was imposed on the colonized peoples. This cultural imposition created a power dynamic that allowed for the appropriation of cultural elements without any regard for their origins or significance.

One of the most glaring examples of this can be seen in the misrepresentation of Native American culture. The traditional headdresses, also known as war bonnets, have become a popular fashion trend in music festivals and Halloween costumes. However, these headdresses hold deep spiritual and cultural significance in Native American communities. For them, the headdresses are earned through acts of bravery and are only worn by a select few during sacred ceremonies. By appropriating this sacred item, non-native individuals are diminishing its value and significance, reducing it to a mere fashion accessory.

Another example can be seen in the appropriation of traditional African hairstyles. In the past, these hairstyles were deemed unprofessional and were banned in schools and workplaces. However, in recent years, these same styles have become a trend in the fashion and entertainment industries. This serves as a reminder of how black people were once discriminated against for their hair and are now being exploited for it.

In addition to the erasure of cultures through colonialism, the rise of globalization has also played a significant role in the perpetuation of cultural appropriation. The rapid spread of information and technology has led to the widespread adoption of elements from different cultures without fully understanding their origins or meaning. This has led to the commodification of cultural items, with companies profiting off of the traditions and customs of marginalized cultures without giving credit or compensation.

Some might argue that cultural exchange is a natural progression of society and promotes diversity. However, cultural appropriation differs from cultural exchange in that it is a one-sided process that often involves the exploitation of marginalized cultures by dominant ones. It also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and can lead to further discrimination and prejudice towards these cultures.

In recent years, there has been a rise in the call for cultural sensitivity and the recognition of cultural ownership. Social media has played a crucial role in calling out instances of cultural appropriation. For example, the hashtag #ReclaimtheBindi has brought to light the appropriation of bindis, a sacred symbol in Hinduism, by non-Indian individuals. Similarly, the term “blackfishing” has been coined to describe the trend of non-black people using makeup and hairstyles to mimic the appearance of black people for social media popularity.

In conclusion, cultural appropriation has deep roots in history, stemming from colonialism and perpetuated by the rise of globalization. Its effects can be seen in the exploitation of marginalized cultures, the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes, and the erasure of cultural identities. It is essential for individuals to educate themselves on the significance and origins of cultural items before appropriating them. As a society, it is our responsibility to respect and protect the traditions and customs of marginalized cultures, rather than exploiting them.