I'm trying to avoid cultural appropriation in my wedding...

I don't know enough about dreamcatchers to say anything specific, however, I don't think your "source" can or should be "I am Native American." So what? I realize that you add that part about "if you know anyone who takes offense lmk..." but this is basically saying, it's fine until proven otherwise.

I agree with other comments that you should err on the side of caution. Actually, it really shouldn't be called caution, it should be called "knowledge" or "non-ignorance" because what someone who is trying to avoid cultural appropriation is doing is trying to appreciate a culture without taking away its meaning and stripping it to a mere costume or pretty little thing.

For example, I am biracial and highly identify with my Indian culture. And yes, I do think cultural appropriation happens a lot, specifically with bindis, churi, saris, etc. But let's say I didn't care. That doesn't make cultural appropriation okay. If I don't see what the big fuss is about, still others might because they understand that what is happening is more than just people liking how they look in a tika and bindi--they're taking away our culture, traditions, values, and symbolism and wearing stuff cuz they think it's hella cute.

I'm not trying to be disrespectful towards you. You have your own opinion and that is perfectly fine. What I am trying to say in a badly explained way is that just because YOU do not take offense doesn't mean it's okay. Your Native American status does not allow you to decide for all Native Americans that this is okay. Again, I really know very little about dreamcatchers--maybe this IS okay.

Also don't feel the need to respond :) I wanted to comment because this currently has 11 points so clearly people agree, and I want to remind others that their own status doesn't make it so they can decide for their entire culture/race/ethnicity what is or is not cultural appropriation.

And again, I realize you do say the whole "if someone takes offense..." thing. But I do not think that's good enough. In this scenario maybe it is, but I have to agree with some of the comments below. Sorry for making this so long, I'm very tired, and I hope you see what I'm at least trying to get at! :)

/r/TwoXChromosomes Thread Parent