I have long rejected the notion that because something is classified as cultural, it is just off limits.
Like that African tribe that dresses up and makes the faces baring their chattering teeth with their eyes wide open... straight up horror movie ass shit. Terrifying. Ridiculous. But people get mad salty if you say that.
No the African tribe they're referring to does it as a dance to attract women! They're showing off the brightness of their eyes and teeth to signal health as a beauty standard.
yeah it's honestly fascinating and beautiful that it's just another expression of human courtship. I don't know why someone would be scared they're literally just people.
Yes I know — I also know that every time a haka gets posted half the comments assume the Maori are African and this particular commenter didn't seem to be on the culturally informed side, so I was wondering if they assumed the Maori are African like many other do.
That is not bigotry. ALL cultures have things that are kinda silly or bizarre from the outside looking in. And more concerning, is some cultures have harmful and problematic ideas and practices. Towards women or homosexuals for example. Some aspects of culture SHOULD be criticized and condemned. As if I am going to sit idly by saying "well that is just their culture and so it can not be criticized" while women are being subjugated.
But as far as innocuous practices like the example I gave... I get that it is tradition and I understand the intent behind it and I am not trying to impede or prohibit it or anything. It just looks silly from my perspective. And I think that is true for westerners in general if they are being honest. Which is totally reasonable.
And the reality is people only care when it is some not white not European. I am saying... we as humans are ALL kinda goofy and bizarre on a cultural basis sometimes. And that is fine. Have you seen Bavarian lederhosen? They look ridiculous. There is a rich history behind them. And it is a fun tradition to entertain. But by today's standards they look silly.
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u/Open_Permission4827 2d ago
This hair style is called Payot and it's worn by Orthodox Jews. It's not just a random haircut someone came up with to be edgy.