[NFBO-Linn-benton] Hawaiian cultural appropriation

[Carolyn Gardner]

Kristen,

Thanks for researching this topic.

Carolyn

From: NFBO-Linn-benton <nfbo-linn-benton-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Kristen Jocums via NFBO-Linn-benton
Sent: Monday, January 15, 2024 7:33 AM
To: 'NFB of Oregon Linn-Benton Chapter List' <nfbo-linn-benton at nfbnet.org>
Cc: kjocums at icloud.com
Subject: [NFBO-Linn-benton] Hawaiian cultural appropriation

Hello All,

I appreciate the contacts after our meeting last night about the question of whether our luau plans will be culturally offensive to Hawaiians.  From my short research this morning, the question seems to be whether we are going to disrespect sacred elements in our activities.  Here's a synopsis from one article I read:

Authentic Hawaiian culture is rooted in respect for the land, nature, and the belief in the interconnectedness of all living things.



For example, the misappropriation of the hula dance, which is a sacred and storied tradition, can be seen as disrespectful and offensive.

When hula is performed without proper understanding or without honoring its cultural context, it diminishes its significance and reduces it to a mere form of entertainment.

As consumers and participants in popular culture, it is our responsibility to educate ourselves about the cultures we engage with and to support initiatives


It is important to note that these arguments are not universally agreed upon, and there are differing viewpoints on whether Hawaiian themed parties are appropriative or not. The intention behind these parties can also play a role in the perception of their appropriateness.

Some argue that if done with respect, understanding, and collaboration with the Hawaiian community, these parties can be a way to appreciate and share the beauty of Hawaiian culture.

Ultimately, it is essential to engage in open and respectful dialogue to better understand the impact of cultural appropriation and work towards cultural appreciation and understanding.

So, Arona knows someone who might be able to give us some perspective on this.  She will be reaching out to them and we can continue the discussion about how we can make our event as respectful as possible.

Many thanks to everyone who is doing their utmost to make our next Dark Café an awesome event from everyone's perspective!



Kristen Jocums
(706) 718-8055

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