nonappropriation

Nonappropriation is a term used to describe a stance or practice that rejects the use of another group’s cultural elements, knowledge, or creative outputs without permission, fair compensation, or appropriate credit. In cultural studies and art discourse, it emphasizes ethical engagement with sources beyond one’s own community and seeks to prevent exploitation, stereotyping, and erasure.

Contexts

Cultural and creative industries: In art, fashion, film, and media, nonappropriation advocates for collaboration with origin communities, respect for sacred symbols, and precautions against misrepresentation. It often involves obtaining consent, ensuring accurate portrayal, and linking benefits or revenue to the source community.

Intellectual property and rights regimes: Nonappropriation aligns with principles of moral rights and fair use in some jurisdictions, prioritizing authors’ control over how their work is presented and ensuring credit is not distorted or stripped away.

Government policy and budgeting: In a fiscal context, nonappropriation refers to the non-allocation of funds for particular programs or agencies. This usage reflects policy choices or political constraints rather than cultural ethics.

Principles and practices

Key principles include consent and meaningful partnership, attribution and possible compensation, avoidance of stereotypes or distortions, and recognition of ownership or stewardship over cultural knowledge and sacred objects. Practices may involve community-led collaborations, benefit-sharing arrangements, and adherence to legal and ethical norms governing cultural property and intellectual property.

Challenges

Definitional ambiguity and jurisdictional differences can complicate application. Critics note difficulties in balancing open exchange with protection of communities, while industry actors may face practical constraints in implementing comprehensive nonappropriation standards.