Ariana Grande and the Cultural Appropriation Debate: What You Need to Know

Ariana Grande and the Cultural Appropriation Debate

Introduction

Ariana Grande, one of the most popular pop singers of our times, has been caught up in the cultural appropriation debate. Her music videos and performances have been criticized for borrowing cultural elements from various cultures and presenting them inappropriately. However, cultural appropriation can be a confusing and complex topic. In this article, we will explore what cultural appropriation is, why it matters, and how it relates to Ariana Grande.

What is Cultural Appropriation?

Cultural appropriation is the adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture. This could include anything from fashion, music, dance, food, and even language. However, cultural appropriation is not inherently bad or wrong. Sharing and borrowing cultural elements can promote understanding and appreciation between cultures.

The issue arises when the cultural element is taken out of its original context and is presented in a distorted or disrespectful way. This could perpetuate stereotypes and even lead to the erasure of the original culture.

Why Does Cultural Appropriation Matter?

Cultural appropriation is not just a matter of taste, it is a social justice issue. Cultural appropriation has the potential to cause harm to marginalized cultures. In many cases, the cultures that are appropriated from have been historically oppressed or continue to face oppression. Taking elements from their culture without their permission or consultation is an act of disrespect and reinforces a power dynamic that favors the dominant culture.

Furthermore, cultural appropriation can also lead to the commercialization of culture. When cultural icons are taken out of their original context and are presented as trendy fashion accessories or Instagram backdrops, it reduces the culture to a commodity. This reinforces the idea that culture is something to be bought and sold, rather than appreciated and respected.

Ariana Grande’s Cultural Appropriation

Ariana Grande has been caught up in the cultural appropriation debate many times. Her music videos and stage performances have been criticized for borrowing elements from various cultures, including Japanese, Indian, and African.

One of the most cited examples of cultural appropriation by Ariana Grande is in her video for the song “7 Rings”. The video features Grande and her friends wearing traditional Japanese clothing, accessorized with chopsticks in their hair. This was seen as a problem because chopsticks are culturally significant and using them as a mere decoration reduces their meaning.

Another example of cultural appropriation by Grande was in her performance at the 2020 Grammy Awards. She performed in a pink satin gown and had her hair styled in an up-do reminiscent of the 1960s. This hairstyle is known as the “Beehive” and has roots in African American hair culture. Grande’s use of the hairstyle without proper acknowledgement of its origins was criticized as an act of cultural appropriation.

Conclusion

Cultural appropriation is a complicated issue, but it is important to recognize the harm it can cause to marginalized cultures. Ariana Grande, like many other celebrities, has faced criticism for her cultural appropriation. As fans and consumers, it is our responsibility to call out problematic behavior and to educate ourselves on the issue. We must work towards a world where cultural exchange is respectful and knowledge is shared without harm.

Speech tips:

Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.