Cultural appropriation or appreciation in Brisbane’s festival circuit?

With live music coming back after COVID-19, Brisbane’s festivals and music venues are seeing costume trends based on Latin clothing.

These trends aren’t always appreciated, and in the last couple of years, there has been an increase in conversations about the appropriation of Latin dress as festival attire.

Photo: Rio Rhythmics

Whilst using a cultural dress as a novelty costume, for many people might seem offensive, other Australians see it as cultural appreciation and an expression of diverse culture in Australia.

“An assistant professor of philosophy at Wellesley College who studies the ethics of cultural heritage, told me that there's no clear definition of cultural appropriation,” says Malaka Gharib, who felt uncomfortable about whether her family should wear traditional dress to her grandpa’s event.

Photo: Rio Rhythmics

Whereas, “If you're [not] wearing it as part of a cultural exploration or education, you should be hesitant,” says professor Erich Matthes.

Latin clothing has cultural significance, and being unaware of the culture behind the clothes is a key issue for those who see the dress as appropriation.

Conversations around cultural appropriation in Australia have increased awareness surrounding Latin dress and its importance to the community, but are still being seen at non-Latin events.

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