Cultural appropriation is a hot topic amongst internet netizens, who commonly throw the phrase around. The lines between cultural appropriation and appreciation are blurred, thus not having defined definitions of which is which.
Take the example of Keizah Daum, who wore a Chinese qipao (a traditional dress) to her prom. Daum’s dress symbolizes female empowerment in the Chinese culture, and by wearing the dress, she is showcasing that symbol to her fellow students. Daum’s situation would be a case of cultural appreciation, as there was no intention of harm nor is she mocking the Chinese. However, the internet turned an innocent prom picture into a hellish nightmare.
The question at hand is, where do we draw the line between culturally appropriating and appreciating? We should draw the line between the latter by making sure that the content is not used to mock or defame another culture. The matter is not caused by racism or hate; it’s caused by ignorance which the internet amplifies.
What is not okay is the culture being worn like a Halloween costume. The Asian community is commonly targeted as some wear Japanese kimonos, Vietnamese áo dài and even rice farmer hats. Moreover, many Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo with superficially, not taking the time to understand the symbolism behind the holiday. They even go as far as wearing sombreros and ponchos. Cultures are not costumes, nor are they objects of fun and entertainment.
Netizens are quick to point fingers and call racism on something that is not worth the time or the energy. Moreover, the internet accuses others of racism left and right, making it lose its meaning. The internet has become sensitive to the point of crucifying someone for making a small mistake. Today, this is the modern equivalent of a witch hunt. Celebrities have been accused of appropriating another culture for their own monetary gain.
For example, Jeremy Lin, who fashioned dreadlocks in a basketball game, was accused of “wanting to be black.” Being in an African-American dominant sport, Lin is immersed in their culture. He adopted the culture through his hair, thereby embracing it as a second heritage. In reality, dreadlocks are a strategic way of making hair adhere to the head, preventing it from flying into the eyes.
The internet is fueled by ignorance, with users acting as if they are the champion of the race they’re defending. If we know the difference between cultural appropriation and appreciation, we can avoid waging online wars and internet fights, saving everyone time and energy.