Cultural Appropriation
What is the definition of cultural appropriation?
- "Cultural appropriation" refers to cultural borrowings or adaptations of a minority culture by a dominant culture
- The appropriation reflects, reinforces, or amplifies inequalities, stereotypes, and historically exploitative relationships.
What Indigenous peoples is Frozen II inspired by?
Sami
What is the name that represents a group of 8 distinctive cultures that Moana was inspired by?
Polynesian
Name and describe 1 out of the 3 types of Indigenous peoples that Thomas King describes in Chapter 7 of the Inconvenient Indian
Dead, Live, Legal,
Name one of the 4 sacred medicines
sage, sweetgrass, cedar, tobacco
Give 1 example of cultural appropriation
- Wearing a headdress as part of a costume
Did Disney consult with the Sami people before creating Frozen II?
Name 1 of the 8 distinctive cultures that all together form Polynesian culture
Aotearoa, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, Hawaii, Rapa Nui, and Fiji
How does the idea of the "Dead Indian" affect Indigenous peoples today?
The concept of the "Dead Indian" perpetuates harmful stereotypes and erases the vibrant, diverse cultures and contemporary realities of Indigenous communities.
Does every Indigenous person recognize and use the 4 sacred medicines? Why or why not?
No, not all Indigenous peoples use the four sacred medicines. For example, the teaching on Cedar come from Anishaanabe, Haudenosaunee (Cayuga, Mohawk, Oneida, Tuscarora, Seneca), as well as Cree.
How can individuals promote cultural appreciation instead of cultural appropriation?
Engage in meaningful cultural exchange, collaborate with communities, amplify diverse voices, educate oneself on the significance of cultural practices, and ensure consent and respect for traditions.
What was one criticism of Frozen II concerning its representation of the Sami?
Perpetuates the stereotype of binding Sami with reindeer
What was one criticism of Moana concerning its representation of Polynesian cultures?
- The "crazy" grandmother
- The grouping of Polynesian cultures
- The portrayal of Maui
Name 2 things that would result in Indigenous people being enfranchised by the Government of Canada
getting a post-secondary education, joining the military, voting in an election, becoming a clergymen or lawyer
Who is the best person to learn about the sacred medicines from?
an Elder
Is wearing Indigenous beadwork cultural appropriation? Why or why not?
Anyone can buy and wear Indigenous art, beadwork -- artists just want to make sure what you're buying is authentic. If someone compliments it, give credit to the artist.
In the short documentary "I am Sami", Niklas Sarri describes the challenges he faces in asserting his identity due to his lack of _____
Reindeer
What was one strength of Moana concerning its representation of Polynesian cultures?
- Moana as a strong woman
- The visuals in the movie
- The songs that are sung in Polynesian languages
What did the Government of Canada offer in return for being enfranchised
The right to vote and Canadian citizenship
What is the term for the practice of burning one of the four sacred medicines to cleanse oneself?
smudging
How might the burning of sage (or any other sacred medicine) by non-Indigenous peoples be a form of cultural appropriation?
Many Indigenous people are unaware of the profound cultural significance of plants like white sage and the history of oppression faced by Native Americans, where their ceremonies and culture were illegal until 1978, just 41 years ago.
What was controversial about the ending of Frozen II?
The end of the movie suggests a simplistic resolution to racial tensions between the people of Arendelle and Northundra. This echoes the concept of "settler-move-to-innocence," showing the idea that issues between the Sámi and non-Indigenous groups are conveniently resolved without addressing underlying complexities.
Given the criticisms raised by some Polynesian cultures against 'Moana,' is it ok for individuals to watch and enjoy the film? Why or why not?
It's entirely possible to appreciate and enjoy a film while also acknowledging and critiquing its shortcomings
Almost 50 years ago, in 1973, Sacheen Littlefeather took to the stage at the Oscars to deliver a speech that Marlon Brando, who won the best actor award for his role in The Godfather could not accept the award due to....?
the mistreatment and racism against Indigenous peoples in the film industry
Why is Cedar described as the "Tree of Life"?
It is referred to as the "Tree of Life" because it has sustained not only the physical body but also the mind and soul of Indigenous peoples. Virtually every part of the tree found purpose in various aspects of life within Indigenous cultures, attesting to its significance.