What About Cultural Appropriation?
Host of CBC's "Unreserved", Rosanna Deerchild, created this CBC video about the difference between Cultural Appreciation vs. Appropriation. (CBC, 2016)
As Deerchild explains, the key difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation, is that appreciation involves "mutual respect, consent and participation. If it is about us, it includes us." (CBC, 2016) For non-indigenous educators sometimes Discerning between cultural appropriation and appreciation can be challenging and nuanced. We are asked to indigenize our curriculum, while at the same time we are not indigenous, so how can we do this respectfully and authentically without cultural appropriation?
Of key importance is taking the guidance of our indigenous teachers, elders and colleagues. Indigenization or Reconciliation in education is not possible unless we are following the leadership of indigenous Teachers. It is important for us to be constantly self-reflecting and also checking in with our Indigenous colleagues for clarification and guidance. Here are some links for further exploration:
Reflections For Educators on Cultural Appropriation:
How well do I understand the difference between cultural appropriation and appreciation?
How often do I check to see whether indigenous gifts or items are made by local indigenous people, benefitting local Indigenous People?
Is worried about cultural appropriation holding me back from moving forward with reconciliation in my classroom? if so, who can I ask for help?
How can I include indigenous people and leaders and teachers more in the work of indigenization or decolonization in my classroom?
References
Deerchild, R. (2016) Cultural appreciation vs Appropriation. [video] CBC. youtube. https://youtu.be/vfAp_G735r0?si=J7WwTw-7i6b3SYzg