This is by no means an authoritative answer, but I believe that some of what should be looked at is how oppressed/marginalized the culture that's being appropriated is. (eta but not to play the oppression olympics.)
Native American tribes already had their land stolen by Europeans, and having their spirituality commercialized is just one more thing being done to them that they can't control.
The same goes for the Meso-Americans.
Is it only those cultures and paths that are currently widely and demonstrably practiced that we "protect" from appropriation?
I think this is close, but one needs to look at the history of oppression of the specific culture, as well.
As for an African-American seeking out BTW, I see no reason why they shouldn't, however, I'm not an expert, I'm not an initiate.
I think that heritage can predispose you to communication with deities associated with your ethnic background but it is not the sole factor in communication with the divine.
Also we have to be careful that we do not substitute our own desires for real communication with deities. I know of many people who read a couple of descriptions of gods from some website and then think they are in communion with them. I think you should test your UPG against what is know about the deities in question from good solid academic works written about these gods. It is also good to compare your experiences with those of individuals who already communion with those deities.
I believe that if you are truly called by a deity from a closed and marginalized society that deity will find a way for you to serve it in a way that does not conflict with the society that it is from.
The only really relevant question here: "What about an African-American seeking BTW training?"
A Seeker is a seeker. If they are a Proper Person and meet the requirements set forth by the Elders they train with, there is no issue.
Otherwise, this climate of political correctness has nothing to do with the Gods, at all. If someone feels a tug from a God not familiar to their upbringing and culture, and they seek understanding fatihfully? Whose business is it, really?
The accusations about misappropriation has a historical context. Much of it came on the heels of the New Agers running out to make up some Mystic Indian WooWoo in order to fatten their bottom lines. They were often aided and abetted by NAs looking to make a quick buck themselves. So the context of the objection is as important as the objections itself.
The only really relevant question here: "What about an African-American seeking BTW training?"I disagree. The community profile says: "This community is for the discussion and general chit chat about Wiccan, pagan and religious topics, we welcome both the experienced and the beginner to come and discuss, exchange ideas, share opinions and educate each other
( ... )
I trained alongside an African-American woman, so I'm not really seeing that as a barrier or challenge to British Traditional Wicca. Frankly, as we used to joke, my having Irish parents was a bigger one
( ... )
I'm of the firm opinion the Gods choose who they will and ignoring them, well isn't pretty. That being said, try not to be an ass, and understand that others are gonna be more then a bit butthurt if you decide to call yourself x, when you aren't of their tribe, race, cultural niche, or what have you.
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Native American tribes already had their land stolen by Europeans, and having their spirituality commercialized is just one more thing being done to them that they can't control.
The same goes for the Meso-Americans.
Is it only those cultures and paths that are currently widely and demonstrably practiced that we "protect" from appropriation?
I think this is close, but one needs to look at the history of oppression of the specific culture, as well.
As for an African-American seeking out BTW, I see no reason why they shouldn't, however, I'm not an expert, I'm not an initiate.
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Also we have to be careful that we do not substitute our own desires for real communication with deities. I know of many people who read a couple of descriptions of gods from some website and then think they are in communion with them. I think you should test your UPG against what is know about the deities in question from good solid academic works written about these gods. It is also good to compare your experiences with those of individuals who already communion with those deities.
I believe that if you are truly called by a deity from a closed and marginalized society that deity will find a way for you to serve it in a way that does not conflict with the society that it is from.
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A Seeker is a seeker. If they are a Proper Person and meet the requirements set forth by the Elders they train with, there is no issue.
Otherwise, this climate of political correctness has nothing to do with the Gods, at all. If someone feels a tug from a God not familiar to their upbringing and culture, and they seek understanding fatihfully? Whose business is it, really?
The accusations about misappropriation has a historical context. Much of it came on the heels of the New Agers running out to make up some Mystic Indian WooWoo in order to fatten their bottom lines. They were often aided and abetted by NAs looking to make a quick buck themselves. So the context of the objection is as important as the objections itself.
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