Reflection on Respect for the History of Other Cultures

There are many ways that cultural practices can be acceptable, however, many other people may draw the line and find these cultural practices as offensive. First off, there are three different types of ways that culture is spread; cultural exchange, cultural appropriation, and assimilation. Cultural exchange occurs when people and groups of other backgrounds share their cultures in a respectful manner. Cultural appropriation is the lack of consideration and respect for the history of other cultures. Examples may include mocking and exploitation of the cultural symbols and practices of another group. Lastly, we have cultural assimilation. This is the process of one who gives up their own traditions and cultural practices, while adopting the cultural practices of a more powerful and superior group. As a matter of fact, there are many cases where public figures have done specific practices, which have been considered as offensive and problematic to many certain people.One example is where singer and songwriter Pharrell Williams posed for the cover of a fashion magazine, Elle UK, while wearing a Native American bonnet, though he is not Native American. First off, in this culture, headdresses have a deep meaning for Native Americans. The bonnet that Williams had worn was a war bonnet handcrafted by eagle feathers, which are considered the sky’s greatest bird, and is known to protect the wearer from harm. The bonnet is a symbol of leadership, so not everyone has the right to wear them. Additionally, these bonnets are worn on special occasions. However, many people including Native Americans found this offensive, since they thought that Williams did not respect the Native American culture and he did not know the true meaning and origin of the bonnet. This scenario is most likely considered as cultural appropriation, due to the lack of consideration or knowledge toward the culture’s history and significance. One more example of cultural appropriation is how the Cleveland Indians “Chief Wahoo” logo will be discontinued by 2019. Since 2016, Native Americans have been trying to get

There are many ways that cultural practices can be acceptable, however, many other people may draw the line and find these cultural practices as offensive. First off, there are three different types of ways that culture is spread; cultural exchange, cultural appropriation, and assimilation. Cultural exchange occurs when people and groups of other backgrounds share their cultures in a respectful manner. Cultural appropriation is the lack of consideration and respect for the history of other cultures. Examples may include mocking and exploitation of the cultural symbols and practices of another group. Lastly, we have cultural assimilation. This is the process of one who gives up their own traditions and cultural practices, while adopting the cultural practices of a more powerful and superior group. As a matter of fact, there are many cases where public figures have done specific practices, which have been considered as offensive and problematic to many certain people.

One example is where singer and songwriter Pharrell Williams posed for the cover of a fashion magazine, Elle UK, while wearing a Native American bonnet, though he is not Native American. First off, in this culture, headdresses have a deep meaning for Native Americans. The bonnet that Williams had worn was a war bonnet handcrafted by eagle feathers, which are considered the sky’s greatest bird, and is known to protect the wearer from harm. The bonnet is a symbol of leadership, so not everyone has the right to wear them. Additionally, these bonnets are worn on special occasions. However, many people including Native Americans found this offensive, since they thought that Williams did not respect the Native American culture and he did not know the true meaning and origin of the bonnet. This scenario is most likely considered as cultural appropriation, due to the lack of consideration or knowledge toward the culture’s history and significance. One more example of cultural appropriation is how the Cleveland Indians “Chief Wahoo” logo will be discontinued by 2019. Since 2016, Native Americans have been trying to get rid of the name and logo, as they see it as racist and offensive toward their culture. Additionally, Native Americans find the name “Chief Wahoo” as offensive and racist since it is a made up name.

Although many people of a certain group find people of other cultures practicing their culture as offensive, I believe that this is considered as cultural exchange. The examples above show how public figures use clothing and sports team names from other cultures. They are using them in a positive way, as a way of getting other cultures noticed and seeing the diversity of our people. Additionally, since racial slurs or any other offensive statements are not included, I do not find a reason for why these representations of the Native American culture are considered as cultural appropriation. I believe that Pharrell Williams and the Cleveland Indians are celebrating cultural variations.