<p>In this episode of <em>The Culture-Centered Classroom,</em> we explore one of the most essential and misunderstood aspects of culturally responsive practice: <strong>the difference between celebrating culture and appropriating it.</strong></p><p>Building on Episodes 1 and 2, Jocelynn offers a grounded, compassionate, and culturally competent look at what happens when celebration intersects with identity, history, and lived experience—especially during the diverse and emotionally charged winter season.</p><p>This episode is not about shame, it’s about <strong>clarity, courage, care, and cultural competence.</strong><strong>What You’ll Learn in This Episode: </strong></p><p><br></p><p><strong>The Clear Distinction Between Appreciation and Appropriation</strong></p><p>Jocelynn breaks down the difference through the lens of <strong>intent vs. impact</strong>, emphasizing that cultural celebration without context or permission can unintentionally cause harm—even when well-intentioned.</p><p><strong>Why Cultural Competence Must Guide Celebration</strong></p><p>You’ll learn four truths cultural competence teaches us:</p><ol><li><p>Culture is not decoration</p></li><li><p>Traditions carry emotional and historical weight</p></li><li><p>Symbols have context and meaning</p></li><li><p>Practices emerge from lived experience—not Pinterest boards</p></li></ol><p>These truths help prevent “performing diversity” and instead foster <strong>authentic cultural appreciation.</strong></p><p><strong>A Real-World Example: Florida State Seminoles Football</strong>Jocelynn uses the Florida State Seminoles as a concrete case study of <strong>how permission, relationship, and collaboration</strong> create a model for cultural appreciation rather than appropriation.<br>This example helps educators understand the importance of community consent, not assumption.</p><p><strong>Why We Must Avoid the “Single Story” Trap</strong>Drawing on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s powerful TED Talk, <em>The Danger of a Single Story</em>, Jocelynn explains how incomplete narratives shape misunderstanding, bias, and cultural harm.<br>This example reinforces the need for multiple voices, not stereotypes or oversimplified representations.</p><p><strong>A Simple 3-Step Guide for Culturally Respectful Celebration</strong>Aligned with the AnchorED for Achievement framework, Jocelynn shares a practical, actionable method:</p><ol><li><p><strong>Reflect</strong> — examine assumptions, intentions, and classroom norms</p></li><li><p><strong>Learn</strong> — seek authentic sources, voices, and historical context</p></li><li><p><strong>Implement</strong> — co-create celebrations with students and families</p></li></ol><p>This guide helps you celebrate culture with confidence—not fear.</p><p><strong>Reflection Questions for Educators</strong></p><ul><li><p>What assumptions do I bring into cultural celebrations?</p></li><li><p>Whose voice is centered? Whose voice is missing?</p></li><li><p>Is this cultural element being used with permission, understanding, and respect?</p></li><li><p>How does this celebration deepen belonging for all students?</p></li><li><p>How can I create space for students to share (or not share) their traditions with agency?</p></li></ul><p><strong>Resources Mentioned</strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>TED Talk: The Danger of a Single Story</strong> – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie</p></li><li><p><strong>Back-to-School Series Freebie: Lesson 1 + activities</strong><br>👉 customteachingsolutions.com/btsfree</p></li><li><p><strong>Focus Word Reflection Kit</strong> – available in the Virtual Learning Library and TPT store</p></li></ul><p></p>