Appropriation vs. Appreciation

A few weeks ago, we received an email from a High School teacher with some questions about how to proceed with including different dance styles in a group project scenario. With permission, we've included a bit of that email below:

“Hello,

This is probably not your typical question, but considering the work you do and knowledge you have of dance and culture, I thought you may be able to answer this!

My grade 12 students are each choreographing a piece. One student, who is Indian, is choreographing a Bollywood style dance based on the traditional Indian dance she has learnt growing up.

I am just trying to navigate if (another) student should be placed in their group, as they would be a white student performing in a saree. I am not sure if this is potentially a form of appropriation.”

This is not the first time we've gotten an email like this and... we think it's great! We don't have all the answers, nor can speak for everyone but we do have a lot of experience navigating this world and are always happy to help! As you know, asking questions is so much better than sitting in fear! Here's part of our response…

“Hi!

From our point of view, the deciding factor of whether or not these creations are cultural appropriation are the background of the choreographer(s); they’re training, time spent in the culture of the dance etc. and if they are inviting other dancers into that space. And it sounds like these students are doing just that.

We understand this topic is quite nuanced but this is our point of view based on our own experiences. Maybe it would be a good idea to sit down with these three dancers to set up expectations and comfort levels for everyone?”

Have you ever felt like this? Not knowing how to be inclusive but not appropriative? 

Let us know your thoughts!