As someone looking into some form of Global Studies/History, and with a general amount of common sense, Shelix has all the right to be pissed off about this. So, instead of being permissive of blatant fetishization of other cultures, here’s a way to research and appreciate them WITHOUT being a racist!!
Aero’s Guide to Appreciation
DISCLAIMER: Now, I am such a whitey mcwhiteson, but I have delved deep into the stories behind other nations’ cultures. And I am no stranger to the fact I am Whitey McWhite central. So don’t assume that I am speaking up for what cultures beyond my own (Scottish, if you’re wondering) are comfortable with.
1. Learn about the mythos BEYOND a popularized standpoint
Pretty much everywhere has its own mythology. Not all of it is the parts that are romanticized by scholars or the internet; there are some deeper and more personal aspects of it that many deemed “unnecessary”.
Look up post-mortem rituals, celebrations of the solstices or any other important holidays (For example: the Attic Calendar that the early greeks used has many of its own holidays directed for the gods — I celebrate many).
Learn about how their spiritual beliefs played into media! For example: a majority of early Japanese theater was led by tales warning against jealousy, and touching on topics of loss and morality.
2. Learn the proper words for cultural clothing and accessories
Do you remember when women were calling a Sari a “Scandinavian Scarf”? Or when Bangles were called “chunky/y2k bracelets”? Obviously those ARENT the names that these things have, but you wouldn’t know that if you didn’t do the research.
Even if you do know the name, do you know the significance of it? How to wear it properly? These are all things you SHOULD be asking yourself, to truly appreciate the culture.
All cultures have beauty, but they also all carry something less desirable. Generalizing a culture as only the good, or only the bad, leads to stereotypes and misinformation regarding the people as a whole.
4. Realize that body dysmorphia IS a thing
It’s common to wish you had a different appearance. It’s common to want to be or look like someone else. Those things are okay, as long as you can manage them.
What ISNT okay, and I implore the person who sent the ask to realize this, is making someone feel like the only way to cure it is by COMMITTING to those urges and attempting to alter your body to an extreme (like changing your complexion, bone structure, hair texture, etc). Because those things are a form of self harm.
Instead, learn about your country of origin! Learn what makes it unique, and find ways to tie it to you. Even if you feel only distant, your cultural identity is a choice you have to make to identify with.
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