The past few excursions our DukeEngage-Ecuador group took has helped me better understand the concept of cultural appropriation and how it manifests itself in Ecuador. Back home, I see examples of cultural appropriation especially through fashion. One recent and notable example that comes to mind is Demi Lovato wearing dreadlocks in the music video for “No Promises.” Seeing these incidents in the US, I viewed both the individual and the culture in a vacuum. Some person from Point A takes a cultural aspect from Point B. This can happen as passively as buying a product on the internet.
Sincerity also plays a role in respecting a foreign culture. If you purchase an item, does the way you use it accurately represent the host culture? Did you buy it because it looked cool or because you’re genuinely interested in the people and culture behind it?
Then what happens if both parties are physically in the same space? In our trips to Cuenca and Baños, I’ve seen tourists walking the streets sporting clothing, jewelry, and bags all with designs of native Andean peoples. I can’t help but wonder at what point should we consider this cultural appropriation. I see how traditional dress such as a poncho has no real use or cultural value to a non-Ecuadorian American. But what about more mundane objects? A blanket to put on your dorm bed. A shoulder bag to wear to class. If they have an indigenous design, is it still respectful to purchase them?
Sincerity also plays a role in respecting a foreign culture. If you purchase an item, does the way you use it accurately represent the host culture? Did you buy it because it looked cool or because you’re genuinely interested in the people and culture behind it?
In thinking about this topic the last few weekends, I’ve talked with many Ecuadorians about cultural appropriation and received just as many unique responses. Some tell me they believe these products shouldn’t leave the general region they’re produced in. Others say purchasing goods from native populations is empowering, allowing them expression in a world where many indigenous populations are voiceless.
The issue of cultural appropriation by tourists in Ecuador is not by any means unique. And this post doesn’t come close to explaining all the factors that go into cultural appropriation. I’m merely trying to point out an observation that I’ve noticed in Ecuador’s more touristy cities. Though the reality is that in the Ecuadorian artisan markets, Andean peoples earn their living off of foreigners buying their blankets, scarves, and ponchos. Tourists don’t have to think hard about what they’re buying, because they see the natives around them wearing the same thing. But does it make it any better? In my opinion, it doesn’t.
On these excursions, I’ve realized I need to take a step back and contemplate how my actions affect the local culture. Being a volunteer, living with a host family, and having over a month under my belt helps me in that regard. Sometimes I humor the fallacy of thinking that I’m different from the tourists I see in the city—which is partly true. My service-learning has helped me better-understand Ecuadorian culture than a regular tourist would. I also like to think that I can see the issue with less American bias. But even so, I am still a foreigner, a guest in this country. There are many things I haven’t learned, and won’t have learned by the time I head back. You never know how a host community is going to perceive your actions until you immerse yourself in it. As such, I need to stay aware and keep asking those questions—over and over.