A kiwi 'christmas' parade:
We still have Santa who comes along with us to celebrate, but we recognise Hineraumati as our summer maiden, who opens up our summer time for us as iwi Māori. For us the big thing was to have our own pūrākau [stories] included in the celebrations we have here in Whangaroa.
Via: In photos: Hineraumati Parade sweeps through Far North town of Kāeo.
Jan Erik Moström I'm curious about how the Maori (correct name?) feel/react to non-Maori adopting their culture/traditions? When I look at the pictures I see what looks to be a non-Maori girl being painted in, what I assume, is traditional patterns? Are there resentments of non-Maori stealing their culture, etc?
Miraz Jordan @jemostrom Excellent question. In this case the parade was organised by Māori and the kids taking part came from a local school, so no problems with face paints etc. In a case where, for example, let's say a British rugby team performs what they think is a haka (special dance) without consulting Māori that would be cultural appropriation. That kind of thing definitely raises ire.
Jan Erik Moström I grew up and lives in an area where the Sami people traditionally have had a presence - there are many discussions about land areas etc but I will not go into that. However, they also make knives, bracelets, clothes, etc that are very distinct from "normal" versions, usually very colorful and beautiful.
And this is where my problems start, I have no problems buying these things, but wearing them is something I don't do. It wouldn't feel right to wear these things because to me they are Sami "things" and since I'm not Sami (although, I wouldn't be surprised if there is a connection since my ancestors have lived in the same area for several hundred years - at least since 1500-1600, probably longer) it would feel like I'm pretending to be something I'm not.
Miraz Jordan @jemostrom This made me think long and hard and I could write screeds. Short version: wear often and with pleasure. Tell others: yes, it was handmade by X, I bought it from Y, I love wearing it because Z. The Sami won't have sold things that are of super special cultural significance that only they should wear / use. The creator will be proud of their craft and thrilled to know someone is enjoying the fruits of their labour, enjoying an item from the Sami culture. More people will see these items as you wear them, thus spreading the Sami culture. For yourself: learn more — for example, perhaps the pattern includes a reindeer which is maybe important to Sami (I'm making that up as I don't know Sami culture). Share such special elements with others too as that helps spread knowledge. By wearing a hat or something you're not saying "I am Sami" you're saying "I'm enjoying this item the Sami created and shared (by selling) with me".
Odd-Egil “Oddzthrash” Auran @jemostrom @miraz I would be hesitant about wearing their traditional clothing as well, but a Sami knife is just a tool, and I’ve got one. Don’t think twice about using it.
Jan Erik Moström @odd I need to think more about this. I would not use one of knives … for one really simple reason, they are quite expensive and works of art so I wouldn’t like to lose or damage one (since I have no shortage of knives it’s an easy choice 😊)