The cultural appropriation conversation tends to focus on conflict over who’s ancestors own what. But what are we really angry about? What is at the heart of cultural appropriation? I’d like to make the argument that it’s not about the thing, the practice, the word, the clothing. It’s actually about the oppression. 

This is a touchy subject, not that I’m afraid to talk about it. It may take you to a dark place in yourself. It may make you angry with me because I might present ideas that feel uncomfortable. You may feel personally attacked as you are forced to reflect on your own actions. But please, hear me out and stick with me until the end.