The line between appreciation and appropriation often gets blurred; for example, someone showing up to a Halloween work party dressed as an Indigenous person or a geisha. As communicators, we can educate stakeholders on the difference, says IDEA committee member Caterina Valentino.
Cultural appreciation is a genuine effort to learn about, celebrate and support a culture, whereas cultural appropriation occurs when cultural elements are used without context, significance or consent, often for profit or trend.
Consider these tips to ensure your work honours, and doesn’t appropriate, culture:
- Do your research: Understand the history and meaning behind a culture’s images, symbols, and traditions.
- Respect the sacred: Avoid ceremonial or historically restricted elements.
- Ditch stereotypes: Use visuals and narratives created by the community.
- Get consent: Collaborate, consult and compensate appropriately.
- Reciprocate value: Support artists, organizations or community initiatives.