S5 E7: The month of heroines:  HEADWRAPS, AN AFRICAN EPIC!

S5 E7: The month of heroines: HEADWRAPS, AN AFRICAN EPIC!

Author: Dr Teju Baba March 16, 2020 Duration: 8:20

YOUR WRAP, YOUR STYLE, YOUR IDENTITY

My African cliché of the day is question to you: do you think that if a White American white lady chooses to wear a headwrap, it is cultural appropriation? Is it paying tribute? Is it respect? Is it free advert for that culture? 

 Cultural appropriation refers to when a dominant culture appropriates the codes of a dominated culture, either the colonized peoples or the oppressed minorities.

  • Is it respect when it's done for fun, and money, while erasing the cultural side of it? Like wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh patterns without ever mentioning the pain of the people?
  • Is it tribute when it's all about everything but the burden, when it is like entering and leaving a culture without bearing the burden and using the codes without suffering while retaining one's privileges?
  • Isn't a stealing when big brands use those cultures materials and symbols to produce gadgets and goodies to enrich themselves and their advertising icons?

Dr. Teju Baba hosts My African Cliches (English), a podcast that moves through time much like the Sankofa bird-looking thoughtfully at the past while steadily progressing forward. Each episode is a journey into the layers of African history, culture, and society, designed to challenge oversimplified narratives and uncover the continent's profound complexity. You’ll hear detailed explorations of specific events, figures, and cultural movements that are often glossed over or misunderstood, connecting historical roots to contemporary realities. This isn't just a recounting of dates and names; it's an engaging conversation about how centuries of rich, diverse experiences shape modern life across Africa. By unpacking these deep histories, the podcast provides essential context, helping listeners move beyond superficial stereotypes. Tune in for a nuanced and enlightening perspective that honors Africa's glorious past and its dynamic present, all within a single, thoughtfully produced podcast. Dr. Baba’s expertise guides you through these stories, making each episode a step toward a more informed and respectful understanding of a continent whose story is still being written.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

My African Cliches (English)
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