Ottawa, November 22 � In May 2010, Shakira performed Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), the official theme song for the FIFA World Cup. While the song's upbeat energy captivated global audiences, it faced accusations of plagiarism. Critics argued that it closely resembled Zangal�wa, a 1986 song by Golden Sounds, a Cameroonian Makossa group. The original song�s chorus features lyrics in the Fang language, addressing a soldier with �Za engalomwa,� meaning �Who sent you?� When asked about the inspiration behind the song, Shakira explained, �I walked from the barn to the house, and while I was walking, boom, it came to me� (Associated Press, 2010). However, despite her statement, the song�s clear African influence sparked debates over whether it was an act of cultural appropriation or an homage to the Cameroonian original. Many criticized the singer, questioning her intentions and suggesting that the tribute felt more like misuse than genuine appreciation. This raises an important question: what distinguishes cultural appropriation from cultural appreciation? Furthermore, how can artists and creators avoid accusations of cultural theft?

Cultural appropriation

Cultural appropriation extends far beyond the music industry, encompassing symbols, clothing, language, and traditions specific to a particular culture or identity. It refers to the adoption of these cultural elements by individuals from different cultures in an inappropriate manner. This practice often strips cultural elements of their original context and significance, reducing them to superficial items.

The issue becomes particularly harmful when members of dominant cultures appropriate elements of minority and oppressed cultures. Cultural appropriation is often seen as a continuation of colonialism, racism, and exploitation, reflecting a mindset that treats marginalized cultures as "free for the taking" (Deerchild, 2016). This approach perpetuates harm by supporting power imbalances and disrespecting the importance of cultural traditions.

Let�s list some examples of cultural appropriation:

• Indigenous Headdresses: Worn as fashion accessories or costumes despite their sacred and ceremonial importance.
• Kimono Styles: Used by designers without understanding their historical and cultural significance.
• Hip-Hop Style: Adopted by artists outside Black communities not acknowledging the struggles and history behind the genre.
• Whitewashing in Film: Casting white actors to portray characters of non-white ethnicities, erasing authentic representation.
• Louis Vuitton�s Jamaican Tribute: Producing a sweater intended to honour the Jamaican flag but using the wrong colours.
  

Cultural appreciation

Cultural appreciation involves honouring and respecting the elements of another culture. It requires engagement with the culture, emphasizing learning, collaboration, and understanding. This must include recognizing cultural elements as belonging to another culture, understanding their meaning, giving credit to the originating culture, and ensuring the consent and collaboration of its people. As Deerchild states, �If it�s about us, then it must include us� (2016).

When rooted in mutual respect, cultural appreciation can take the form of cultural exchange. A meaningful way to celebrate diversity and foster inclusivity. It is essential to guarantee that diversity is embraced as a core value, not as a means of generating profit (TED, 2022). By prioritizing respect and understanding, cultural appreciation becomes a way to bridge communities.

Examples of appreciation are numerous, some can be incorporated into daily life:

• Collaborating with Artists: Partnering with indigenous or local artisans to create traditional garments and ensuring they receive financial benefits and proper recognition for their work.
• Student Exchange Programs: Participating in exchange programs to immerse oneself in another culture, fostering mutual understanding and respect.
• Land Acknowledgments: Incorporating land acknowledgments into university practices and ceremonies to honour and recognize the traditional custodians of the land.
• Learning and Sharing Cultural Arts: Traditional dance classes (e.g., salsa, Bharatanatyam, capoeira) taught by practitioners from that culture.

Recently, in collaboration with Orange and Publicis, Ibrahim Fernandez, a talented Ivorian designer, contributed to the Cultural Avatars project. This initiative celebrates African culture in video games. Notably, Publicis withheld from designing the avatars themselves, instead entrusting African designers like Fernandez to bring the project to life. This collaboration serves as a prime example of cultural appreciation, recognizing the rightful creators of cultural elements.

It�s important to remember that while individuals have the right to wear or engage with aspects of another culture, there is also an importance to consider their origins and use them as a form of appreciation, not appropriation. Similarly, everyone has the right to express themselves through cultural elements, provided they do so respectfully and without lowering the culture in question. 

?Works cited

Associated Press (2010). Shakira Goes 'Waka Waka' in Africa [vid�o]. YouTube. Gibson's Finest: Character :15 ENG 

Deerchild, R. (2016). Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation | CBC Radio | CBC [vid�o] YouTube. Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation | CBC Radio | CBC

Ted. (2022). The 3 P's of Cultural Appropriation | Kayne Kawasaki | TEDxHultLondon [Video]. YouTube. The 3 P's of Cultural Appropriation | Kayne Kawasaki | TEDxHultLondon