The Cambridge Dictionary defines cultural appropriation as “the act of taking or using things from a culture that is not your own, especially without showing that you understand or respect this culture.” However, in the common discussions of appropriation, the subject of consent also comes into play: where it is implied that such thefts of the style, art, attire, or other intellectual property of a culture are being committed without “permission.” But where do we draw the line regarding what is considered the intellectual property of a culture? And who is authorized to grant permission? Who represents a culture and who does not? What happens when members of a culture grant such permission while other members try to revoke that permission? Some see this as weaponizing more liberal members of a culture against hardliners, but does this have the potential to silence members of a culture who accept “outsiders?” Is it wrong to chastise people for who they choose to pray to? How can we respectfully explore and embrace the spectrum of spirituality of different cultures and traditions? This is one of the hottest issues in the magical community today and sure to inspire debate amongst both panelists and audience!
This panel discussion features Brian Cain, Hoodoo Sen Moise, Michael Correll, Starr Casas, Starr RavenHawk, and Witchdoctor Utu.
