LibraryScenariosWhen cultural appropriation masquerades as appreciation
Scenario

When cultural appropriation masquerades as appreciation

I went to an 'African comedy night' in DC and it was mostly white comedians doing accents and I didn't know whether to walk out or just sit there feeling violated.

Nas
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Watching your heritage reduced to caricature in spaces that claim to celebrate it creates a paralyzing mix of anger and helplessness.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with African comedy traditions?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.