Cultural Appropriation Debate
Cultural Appropriation Debate
Be it Resolved, cultural appropriation is part of the American experience.
The release of the country album “Cowboy Carter” by iconic singer Beyoncé this spring caused some suprising controversy.
Some complained Beyoncé, who is Black, shouldn’t be dabbling in what many consider a white music genre. At least one radio station in Oklahoma initially refused to play the album’s first single, “Texas Hold’em.”
The controversy quickly died when many others pointed out that Black Americans have a rich history in country music and cowboy culture.
But the incident raised the issue of cultural appropriation: The stealing from one culture by another.
Some say that “imitation is the best form of flattery” and that cultures borrowing from each other only enriches us all.
Others argue that while different cultures will always be inspired by and borrow elements from each other, there are times when borrowing crosses the line into theft.
Arguing in favour of the resolution is Monica Harris. She is a TEDx speaker, blogger, and author of The Illusion of Division. She is also Executive Director of the Foundation Against Intolerance & Racism, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization committed to bridging the ideological divide in America by focusing on our shared values and interests.
Arguing against the resolution is Nadra Nittle. She is a reporter for The 19th News. She has also written Vox.com, the Los Angeles News Group, and many others. Her books include “Toni Morrison’s Spiritual Vision” and “Recognizing Microaggressions.”
“I would argue that what’s being called cultural appropriation today is really more accurately termed cultural appreciation. And cultural appreciation opens minds and reduces polarization.”
– MONICA HARRIS
“I think the problem is that for too long people haven’t gotten credit where credit is due, and that has robbed them of recognition of their creative and intellectual genius.”
– NADRA NITTLE
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