S6.E13 - Appropriation or Celebration? How to Understand the Difference

In this episode of The Culture-Centered Classroom, we explore one of the most essential and misunderstood aspects of culturally responsive practice: the difference between celebrating culture and appropriating it.Building on Episodes 1 and 2, Jocelynn offers a grounded, compassionate, and culturally competent look at what happens when celebration intersects with identity, history, and lived experience—especially during the diverse and emotionally charged winter season.This episode is not about shame, it’s about clarity, courage, care, and cultural competence.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Clear Distinction Between Appreciation and AppropriationJocelynn breaks down the difference through the lens of intent vs. impact, emphasizing that cultural celebration without context or permission can unintentionally cause harm—even when well-intentioned.Why Cultural Competence Must Guide CelebrationYou’ll learn four truths cultural competence teaches us:Culture is not decorationTraditions carry emotional and historical weightSymbols have context and meaningPractices emerge from lived experience—not Pinterest boardsThese truths help prevent “performing diversity” and instead foster authentic cultural appreciation.A Real-World Example: Florida State Seminoles FootballJocelynn uses the Florida State Seminoles as a concrete case study of how permission, relationship, and collaboration create a model for cultural appreciation rather than appropriation.This example helps educators understand the importance of community consent, not assumption.Why We Must Avoid the “Single Story” TrapDrawing on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s powerful TED Talk, The Danger of a Single Story, Jocelynn explains how incomplete narratives shape misunderstanding, bias, and cultural harm.This example reinforces the need for multiple voices, not stereotypes or oversimplified representations.A Simple 3-Step Guide for Culturally Respectful CelebrationAligned with the AnchorED for Achievement framework, Jocelynn shares a practical, actionable method:Reflect — examine assumptions, intentions, and classroom normsLearn — seek authentic sources, voices, and historical contextImplement — co-create celebrations with students and familiesThis guide helps you celebrate culture with confidence—not fear.Reflection Questions for EducatorsWhat assumptions do I bring into cultural celebrations?Whose voice is centered? Whose voice is missing?Is this cultural element being used with permission, understanding, and respect?How does this celebration deepen belonging for all students?How can I create space for students to share (or not share) their traditions with agency?Resources MentionedTED Talk: The Danger of a Single Story – Chimamanda Ngozi AdichieBack-to-School Series Freebie: Lesson 1 + activities👉 customteachingsolutions.com/btsfreeFocus Word Reflection Kit – available in the Virtual Learning Library and TPT store