Reflections by Rev. Joanne Anquist

Week 4: Learn the Difference Between Cultural Appropriation and Cultural Appreciation from Robertson, David A.. 52 Ways to Reconcile: How to Walk with Indigenous Peoples on the Path to Healing 

In this chapter, Robertson recounts his childhood days at a camp at Riding Mountain National Park where there was a totem pole along with other indigenous displays.  As time went on, he began to question the use of indigenous artifacts, particularly the totem pole, since it originates in the west coast and Riding Mountain is in Manitoba.  He wondered if this was cultural appropriation, particularly since it seems to make indigenous culture a monolith rather than rich cultures with diverse identities.  Robertson believes that asking the question “Is this cultural appropriation?” is a good starting point because it reflects a willingness to know and discover.  He says: 

The distinction between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation is relatively straightforward: it’s an act of appropriation when someone uses an aspect of a culture that’s not their own without understanding or respecting it, especially when it’s a historically oppressed group and when it involves personal gain or profit. Appreciation, on the other hand, sees people genuinely trying to learn about and understand another culture in order to broaden their perspective. It builds relationships across different cultures and involves asking permission and giving credit and fair compensation.  

Profit, is not necessarily monetary.  Profit can be an increase in knowledge and a deeper relationship.  For example, if you have an inukshuk at your cottage, do some research about how it is used in Inuk culture in the North.  That way, you can have a meaningful conversation with guests if they are curious about the artwork.  If you have a dreamcatcher, make sure it is made by an Indigenous artists and it is authentic.

Robertson finishes with this thought:  

My dad used to say that we’re all human beings, and we share far more than we think. Let’s move forward together with that in mind and ensure, as much as we can, that the time we spend and the memories we cherish don’t come at the expense of somebody else’s culture.