As a white person practicing an Eastern religion, the acknowledgment of cultural appropriation hasn't been optional for me – I see it as mandatory given the reality of cultural destruction over the last 500 years (which continues to this day!)

 

So, it's completely understandable if you have concerns about causing further harm through the exploration of Eastern (or other) traditions.

 

Most of us are trying to avoid cultural appropriation as best we can. I imagine you're a compassionate person who desires greater harmony and justice in the world, which is a good thing!

 

However, it can be really frustrating to contemplate these things because it often feels like the hideous face of the past overpowers any potential for growth or transformation in the present.

 

Even if we avoid cultural appropriation "perfectly," that does little to alleviate the heartbreaking reality of the commodification and annihilation of so many traditions.

 

Ooooof. 😣

 

So, what are we to do?

 

We start by recognizing that cultural appropriation is not as straightforward as it may seem.

 

In my 10+ years of research & practice, I have learned that some common ideas about cultural appropriation that are slightly misplaced. Some of us end up getting trapped by opinions, rather than the cultural sovereignty of lineage-holders.

 

There's a big difference.

 

In this free talk, I'll share about the differences between open and closed traditions, and you may be surprised to learn what "closed" truly means in this context.

 

We'll also explore examples of Eastern spiritual teachers who freely traveled to America and Europe with the intention of sharing their wisdom with Western students.

 

They were driven to do this by a pure desire to spread their teachings.

 

They did not do this through coercion.

 

That's a major misconception which actually undermines the self-determination of these lineages.

 

As a white woman, I am obviously presenting this information from my limited perspective, but I feel strongly that the insights I share can benefit anyone drawn to spirituality rooted in a culture different from their own.

 

I'm happy to offer this talk in an attempt to dissolve any unnecessary worry, reorient necessary concern, and allow you to carry on with your spiritual quest – which may have very little to do with your ethnic heritage.