Lina's Take on Cultural Appropriation - Comments

I think that's a very good attitude, and one I think MANY people even in America would like to have. One thing you guys might not see, which makes sense why you would be proud, is that often people of color (born here and immigrated) are treated badly for wearing anything of cultural significance but people from outside that culture - primarily white people - get praised. (Which to me is a form of disrespect, basically saying "We like what you have, but only on white people") That's why a lot of people here get mad, even if the origin country is cool with it. I understand why a Malaysian-American would be mad but why a Malaysian would appreciate the same action, you know? Different context.

I hope that makes sense, it sounded better in my head. Also we need a like button cause I loved your comment & willingness to discuss.

@ pocahontas.
Yes, I agree with you. Malaysia also have native group. And we wouldn't even dream of wearing their outfits because each tribe has their own significance for each outfits. Like their headdress, the cloths and also the patterns. Respect plays an important part here, I have to agree with that. That's why I'm talking about Malaysia and from all other Malaysians I talked to about this issue agree with me. We actually don't mind other people wearing our outfits, if anything we feel proud that foreigners are trying to learn about our culture. We just care if people start being disrespectful.

I think it's different in different countries because of levels of respect. It sounds clear to me that you don't have the issues with respect that the US has. I can say that regardless of location and cultural exchange - which is what sounds like is happening in Malaysia - when it comes to sacred Native American things I wouldn't be okay with it to be used. It all depends on the group in question, what's being used, and by whom.