Cultural appreciation is when you wholeheartedly seek out and learn from people of different backgrounds. This practice honors and respects other traditions and beliefs. There are many ways of respecting different cultures without falling into cultural appropriation. Cultural appropriation is taking elements of one group’s culture and disrespecting their original purpose. These actions are hurtful and dangerous. Here are some tips to continue your cultural appreciation without offending anyone. Be sure to ask yourself these questions

• Am I kind?
• Am I respecting the culture, or am I imitating it?
• Am I making others uncomfortable?

Involvement in community action and advocacy will help foster appreciation for different cultural groups.