April 30,23
Cultural appropriation is a term that describes the adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture. While some view it as a form of appreciation, it can have serious consequences, particularly for Native American communities who have been subjected to cultural appropriation for centuries. Native American cultures are among the most exploited cultures in the world, with elements of their cultures being taken and commercialized without their consent or appreciation. This article will explore the serious problem of cultural appropriation of Native American cultures and its impact on their communities. It will also provide examples of cultural appropriation in fashion, arts, and sports, discuss the harmful effects of such appropriation, and offer solutions on how non-Native Americans can support Native American cultures and address cultural appropriation.
Introduction to Cultural Appropriation and Native American Cultures
Cultural appropriation is a term used to describe the practice of taking elements of another culture without permission or understanding of their significance. Unfortunately, Native American cultures have been subjected to cultural appropriation for centuries, with little acknowledgment or understanding of the harm done. This article aims to define cultural appropriation, explore Native American cultures and traditions, and examine the impact of cultural appropriation on Native American communities.
Defining Cultural Appropriation
Cultural appropriation is the act of taking elements from one culture and using them in another culture without permission or regard for their significance. It often involves the dominant culture taking elements from a marginalized culture, resulting in the erasure of the marginalized culture's significance and the dominant culture's exploitation of those elements.
Native American Cultures and Traditions
Native American cultures are rich and diverse, with over 500 federally recognized tribes in the United States alone. Tribes have distinct languages, beliefs, and practices that vary greatly from one another. However, Native American cultures have often been reduced to stereotypes and caricatures in mainstream media, which has perpetuated cultural appropriation.
The Definition and Impact of Cultural Appropriation on Native American Cultures
Understanding the Definition of Cultural Appropriation
The definition of cultural appropriation includes the exploitation of another culture and the resulting harm done to the culture, including the erasure of its cultural significance, and the exploitation of its resources and knowledge.
The Historical and Contemporary Impact of Cultural Appropriation on Native American Cultures
The impact of cultural appropriation on Native American cultures has been profound, with a long history of cultural exploitation, including land theft, forced assimilation, and the erasure of Native American languages and traditions. Contemporary cultural appropriation includes the use of Native American mascots in sports, fashion designers using Native American patterns and motifs without permission or understanding, and artists appropriating Native American sacred symbols.
Examples of Cultural Appropriation in Fashion, Arts, and Sports
Offensive Examples of Native American Stereotyping in Fashion
Fashion designers have often used Native American patterns and motifs, without permission, in their clothing lines, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and caricatures.
Cultural Appropriation of Native American Symbols and Artifacts in Arts
Art has often appropriated Native American symbols and artifacts in contemporary art, disregarding the cultural significance and meaning of these symbols.
Native American Mascots in Sports and Their Harmful Effects
The use of Native American mascots in sports perpetuates harmful stereotypes and caricatures, creating a hostile and dehumanizing environment for Native American athletes and fans.
The Harmful Effects of Cultural Appropriation on Native American Communities
Damage to Native American Culture and Identity
Cultural appropriation causes damage to Native American culture and identity, erasing the unique significance and cultural meaning of Native American traditions and symbols.
The Psychological Effects of Cultural Appropriation on Native Americans
Cultural appropriation has a profound psychological impact on Native American communities, causing trauma, distress, and a loss of cultural identity.
The Economic Impact of Cultural Appropriation on Native American Communities
Cultural appropriation also has an economic impact on Native American communities, with non-Native businesses profiting from the exploitation and appropriation of Native American cultures without offering compensation or support.
How Non-Native Americans can Support Native American Cultures and Address Cultural Appropriation
Native American cultures and traditions have been appropriated, commodified, and misrepresented for centuries. As non-Native Americans, it is essential to educate ourselves about Native American cultures and traditions and be respectful in our participation. Here are some ways to support Native American cultures and address cultural appropriation:
Learning About Native American Cultures and Traditions
One way to support Native American cultures is to learn about their traditions and history. Read books, watch documentaries, and visit museums to gain an understanding of Native American cultures. It is important to seek out information from Native American people themselves, not just from mainstream media.
Supporting Native American Artists and Their Work
Support Native American artists by purchasing art and crafts directly from them or through Native-owned businesses. This not only supports indigenous economies but also helps to preserve and continue traditional art forms.
Respectful Participation in Native American Traditions and Ceremonies
If invited to participate in Native American ceremonies or events, be respectful of their customs and traditions. Do not appropriate or commodify their practices, and always ask permission before taking photos or sharing information.
The Importance of Educating People on Native American Cultures and History
For too long, Native American voices and histories have been silenced and ignored. Here are some reasons why it is crucial to educate people on Native American cultures and history:
The Need for Recognizing and Acknowledging Native American History
Native Americans have a rich and complex history that has been erased and ignored in mainstream education. Acknowledging and recognizing their history is essential to promote understanding and respect for Native American cultures.
The Importance of Teaching Native American History in Schools
Teaching Native American history in schools is crucial to ensure that future generations understand and respect their cultures. It is important to recognize that Native American history is American history and should be included in school curriculums.
Conclusion: The Need for Respectful Appreciation and Preservation of Native American Cultures
In conclusion, cultural appropriation is a serious problem for Native American cultures, and it is up to non-Native Americans to support and respect their traditions. Through learning, supporting, and participating in a respectful way, we can work towards preserving Native American cultures and promoting understanding and respect. It is essential to recognize and acknowledge the complex and rich history of Native Americans and incorporate it into our education and society as a whole.In conclusion, cultural appropriation of Native American cultures is not only disrespectful but also harmful to their communities. To prevent further damage, it is crucial to recognize and appreciate the value of Native American cultures while also educating ourselves on their history and traditions. Non-Native Americans can support Native American communities by supporting their artists, learning about their cultures, and recognizing their contributions to society. By taking steps towards respectful appreciation and preservation of Native American cultures, we can ensure that their traditions and identities continue to thrive for generations to come.
FAQ
What is cultural appropriation?
Cultural appropriation is the adoption of elements of a culture by members of another culture without their consent or appreciation.
What are some examples of cultural appropriation of Native American cultures?
Examples of cultural appropriation of Native American cultures include the use of Native American headdresses in fashion, the commercialization of Native American art, and the use of Native American mascots in sports.
What are the harmful effects of cultural appropriation on Native American communities?
Cultural appropriation of Native American cultures can lead to the erasure of their traditions, the loss of their cultural identity, and the economic exploitation of their communities. It can also cause psychological harm and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
What can non-Native Americans do to address cultural appropriation and support Native American cultures?
Non-Native Americans can support Native American communities by educating themselves on their cultures and traditions, supporting Native American artists and their work, and respectfully participating in their cultural events and ceremonies. It is also important to advocate for the protection of Native American rights and to acknowledge their contributions to society.
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updated: Oct. 11, 2020
Thank you for your attention.
Native American's have a hard enough time trying to preserve their Cultures and Traditions. The last thing we need are foreign groups pretending to be us. I come across several of these perpetrates every time I look for them.
Each one of the pages below are associated with a storefront that sell Native American Merchandise only. A few of the pages have changed their content since I brought this to our attention but I am certain they will return if there are no consequences.
Please take the time to identify them and report them as Cultural Appropriation(fake) pages.
You can confirm by reviewing the page transparency which will indicate which country manages that particular page. If there's at least one individual who is not from North America the Page is not Native American. ( I am happy to correct myself if I am proven wrong.)
I will keep adding them.
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Here's a List so far ...
Vietnam - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Pride-Clothing-110329534139108/
Vietnam - https://www.facebook.com/Indigenous-Pride-Clothing-110329534139108/
Vietnam - https://www.facebook.com/Soul-Land-304655233546836/
Vietnam - https://www.facebook.com/Native-American-Pride-And-Beauty-106504637690937/
Vietnam - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Pride-Defend-The-Sacred-1203694943006842/
Vietnam and Philippines - https://www.facebook.com/redindiantshirt/
Vietnam and Philippines - https://www.facebook.com/NativeAmericanTrueStyle/
Cambodia - https://www.facebook.com/NativeAmericanPrideOfficial
Philippines - India - https://www.facebook.com/nativeamericanclothing
Thailand - https://www.facebook.com/Love-Native-American-327999340741524/
Turkey - https://www.facebook.com/cheekbonebeauty/
Japan - https://www.facebook.com/Sacred-Animal-Spirit-Guides-415459181856807
Spain - Vietnam - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Americans-106046407873441
Egypt - https://www.facebook.com/WeLoveNativeAmericans/
Serbia - https://www.facebook.com/AmericanBeautyNative/
Philippines - https://www.facebook.com/Native-American-Life-112841290541996/
Germany and Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/NativesAmericanCulture/
Germany - https://www.facebook.com/nativeamericanfacts/
Germany - https://www.facebook.com/dalmatija
Germany - https://www.facebook.com/Indian-Native-Pictures-Only-228859820458724/
Czech Republic and Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/NativeAmericansAminal/
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Americans-Tribe-276163156218635
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Native-101148838293495/
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Americans-Wisdom-1860447670835326/
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Americanss-1323738874364471
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/allaboutnative1/
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/I-Like-Native-Americans-103431211392537
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Native-americans-history-103628288105807/
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Indian-Tribes
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Native-american-nation-112597717186369/
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Indian-Tribes-113920813775913
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/I-Like-Native-Americans-103431211392537/
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/nativeamericanababco
Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Native-American-Cherokee-1237380979772429/
Belgium - https://www.facebook.com/loveIndiansPatricia/
Belgium - https://www.facebook.com/Sjamaanserituelenenzang
Belguim - Kosovo - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Americans-Cheroke-73233093110680/
Albania - https://www.facebook.com/nativestuffscom
Albania - https://www.facebook.com/NativeSpiritsV.I.P
Netherlands - Belgium - https://www.facebook.com/NativeAmericanValeria
Netherlands-Belguim, Germany - https://www.facebook.com/LoveIndiansValeria
Austria - https://www.facebook.com/nativespirit.earthguardian/
Austria - https://www.facebook.com/native.spirit.heart/
Morocco - https://www.facebook.com/NativeAmerican96
Macedonia - https://www.facebook.com/nativeindianspirt
Macedonia - https://www.facebook.com/groups/nativeindiansspirit
Nigeria - https://www.facebook.com/nativeloveforall
UK - https://www.facebook.com/nativeinspiredcrafts/
United Kingdom - https://www.facebook.com/theamericanss
Bali Indoneasia - https://www.facebook.com/Indian-Head-Dress-424621257880087
Sweden - https://www.facebook.com/NativeAmericanLoveAndNaturePage
??? - https://www.facebook.com/American-Native-113406290017752
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Native-American-Spirit-Guides-556951351491138
??? - https://www.facebook.com/FightForNativeAmericanRights/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/welovenaturee
??? - https://www.facebook.com/NativeAmericanInfo
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Native-american-woman-costume-1687678081542455/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/NDNWarriors/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Native-American-Indians-In-Glorious-Black-White-203061580307908/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/NativeAmericanTrueStyle
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Pride-113104387075431/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Style-590130598318567/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/We-were-here-first-100394671750442/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Eagle-spirit-109598894112948/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Dreams-Handmade-Dreamcatchers-1963112050569276/
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Punstee-100315984994961
??? - https://www.facebook.com/SpeakfortheNations
??? - https://www.facebook.com/stocktonpowwow
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Best-Gifts-103308648211340
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Amazing-Native-112243273941330
??? - https://www.facebook.com/Native-Media-100704421618753
Spain - Vietnam - https://www.hambalance.com/
https://www.nativeamericanstyle.net/
Cambodia - https://nativeamericanpride.com
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You can make the extra effort to report them from their own facebook pages, We may see results if enough of us report them.
Most of these stores have popped up in the last six months.
Please help the Native American communities by purchasing products from Native American owned stores. Best way to ensure you are purchasing from a Native American on facebook is to check the 'Page Transparency' to see where the page originates from. The linked pages and associated URLs are usually the tell tale signs.
We are a proud people. We are proud of who we are. We will make it known who we are and where we come from.
Thanks
Reamus.