Amandla Stenberg breaks down why cultural appropriation is a problem in a country segregated by institutionalized racism.
Ms. Stenberg is only 16, but she talks about racism and history with the maturity and eloquence of a college lecturer. If you've been meaning to brush up on issues around cultural appropriation vs. cultural exchange, this is a great use of four-and-a-half minutes.
The video was created for her history class (even movie stars have homework) and it's concise, clear and convincing. She says:
Appropriation occurs when a style leads to racist generalizations or stereotypes where it originated, but is deemed as high-fashion, cool or funny when the privileged take it for themselves.
Hmm, Madonna wearing grills, anyone?
Whenever your sad, remember that time Madonna wore grills... #WeWillAllSurvivepic.twitter.com/7YPikycHJe
— Arianna Crawford (@AriannaCrawfor1) September 28, 2014
There is always going to be a back and forth on the ground between people of all races when it comes to style, language and art. However, the people who are honored for their "innovation" and making money off their "discoveries" are usually not the people who have suffered, fought and overcome the trials that lead to great music and culture making. They're rich white people!
Katy Perry Bleached Brows & Curled Baby Hairs — Love Or Loathe? http://t.co/4vVD1rTcb6 Oh what now, Katie? What now? pic.twitter.com/1sTNucY9El
— axishairsalons.com (@axishairsalons) June 19, 2014
As Amandla says, "What would America be like if we loved black people as much as we love black culture?"