Halloween is fast approaching and I thought this would be an appropriate time to discuss the topic of cultural appropriation. Google defines appropriation as, “The action of taking something for one’s own use, typically without the owner’s permission”. Cultural appropriation occurs all the time, amongst several different cultures and I think it most often occurs in retail stores and during Halloween. More often than not, people are unaware that they are committing the act of cultural appropriation. It is a huge indicator of ignorance, especially on Halloween. However, Mia Mercado brings to light that cultural appropriation is a bit convoluted because cultural appreciation and cultural exchange can be important parts of any culture, but this is why it is important to discuss and hopefully gain some clarity.
I think that you can agree with me when I say that there never fails to be at least one person “dressed up” as an “indian”, on Halloween each year. I used to be completely oblivious to cultural appropriation but I have never “dressed up” in the traditional clothing of another culture because I have always had this innate feeling that it was wrong. Some of you may be wondering what the big deal is; dressing up for Halloween as an Indigenous person. It is a big deal because it is traditional clothing that is being taken by another and used as a costume. First Nations traditional regalia, for example, is sacred, and it is usually given to someone who hand-made it or they make it themselves, and it can take a very long time. There is love and there is spirit that goes into making Regalia. Regalia is not something you just go out and buy in a store and definitely was never meant to be used as a costume.
When people dress up for Halloween as an Indigenous person, it is a stereotypical perspective of what it is to look like an “indian”, and this can be construed as being disrespectful and rude, even if the person is just “having fun”. It is important to educate others on this topic, in a good way. Many people did not learn about the Indigenous Culture in school and they are not to be blamed. There is effort being put forth to change this and include more about First Nations history in the curriculum.
My hope is that people will increasingly become more aware of the injustice which occurred amongst the Indigenous Culture. I hope for forgiveness, understanding, empathy, and that the truth would never fail to triumph over stereotypes, and any preconceived notions that have grown over time. Reconciliation is a two-way street, where Indigenous and non-Indigenous People can walk alongside each other and work towards a better future for generations to come.