Cultural Appropriation
Our Festival concurs with the directive of the FCMF National Music Festival (2024) - Participants are asked to respectfully consider the issue of cultural appropriation when choosing selections as well as whether to utilize costumes and/or actions while presenting that chosen selection. Cultural appropriation applies when cultural borrowings or adaptations from a minoritized culture reflect, reinforce, or amplify inequalities, stereotypes, and historically exploitative relationships that have direct negative consequences on equity-seeking communities.
The Platinum Rule
The Platinum Rule asks us to treat others as they want to be treated. It takes the notion of the Golden Rule another step and obliges us to ask permission, seek insight, and show respect before we perform selections that may be insulting and disrespectful of historically marginalized groups in society.