Cultural symbols

1. Identify and give an explanation of a symbol that is representative of an aspect of your culture.
   • The Christmas Tree is one of the symbols of Christians in Germany. The lit charismas tree in Germany symbolizes the German Christian culture. Since the 16th century, devout Christians in Germany, for instance, Martin Luther, brought decorated trees home. 

2. If your symbol is used in another culture, describe the similarities and differences between the two.

• Different countries and cultures in the world use the Christmas tree. Many of these are Christians who use it to celebrate Christmas, just as is the case in Germany. Others have different reasons for the charismas tree. Many Americans and Australians associate the Christmas tree with winter. Ukrainians decorate them using spiders and their webs. Some countries in Africa use palm and mango trees as Christmas trees. 

3. Do you make an effort to hide or show off your culture? 

• I usually make an effort to show my culture. I usually show it through how I wear, eat, and carry out other tasks. For instance, I at times wear clothes with my cultural symbols on them. I tend to show that I am a Christian by practicing christen tradition when with others. 

4. Have you ever been given a hard time or been accused of appropriation of a symbol?

• I have never been accused of appropriation of a symbol. However, I have encountered situations where members of a culture have adopted elements from a different culture. For instance, Amazon sold flip flops that sowed MAHATMA Gandhi the Father of India, and this brought them problems. I consider it inappropriate as it is used to gain a competitive edge in business.