Regarding the claims of Racism and Culture Appropriation towards Dreamcatcher (1 Viewer)

[spicy_illusion]

This may clear many things up regarding this particular subject.

Source: Regarding the claims of Racism and Culture Appropriation towards Dreamcatcher | Insomnia Dream World

Spoiler: Quite a long article

Regarding the claims of Racism and Culture Appropriation towards Dreamcatcher

Spoiler: Quite a long article

(Other Sources used for this article:

Minnesota Chippewa Tribe Website and Tribal Headquarters Representatives: Minnesota Chippewa Tribe

All the helpful people at Leech Lake Band of the Ojibwe Tribal Offices: Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe

The various people and historians at Leech Lake Tribal College: Home - Leech Lake Tribal College

Circular 34 of the US Copyright Law: https://www.copyright.gov/circs/circ34.pdf)


The purpose of this article is to address the claims and accusations made against the group Dreamcatcher, Dreamcatcher Company, and their parent company Happy Face Entertainment of cultural insensitivity, appropriation, and racism in the use of their name, the use of dreamcatchers in some of their music videos, the use of a stylized artistic representation of a dreamcatcher on their albums and other photo media, as well as the name of their fandom “InSomnia” for being insensitive towards those with the medical condition.



The other most common aspects of these comments and accusations seems to be whether Happy face Entertainment, and thus the members of the group themselves, have the right to profit from something that is most commonly associated with Native American culture.



To answer this, lets first take a quick look at the definitions of the terms involved, as well as a brief history of the Dreamcatcher in Native American culture. (Definitions taken from the Cambridge University Dictionary https://dictionary.cambridge.org and history of the dreamcatcher taken from Native American Dreamcatchers: Ojibwe and other Indian dream-catcher crafts):



Cultural Appropriation: the act of taking or using things from a culture that is not your own, especially without showing that you understand or respect this culture.



Racism: the belief that some races are better than others, or the unfair treatment of someone because of his or her race. (more in depth definition and history of the term here: racism | Definition, History, & Laws)



A brief history of the Dreamcatcher (taking into account that a lot of the early history (pre 1920’s) is largely unknown):



“…Dreamcatchers are an authentic American Indian tradition, from the Ojibway (Chippewa) tribe. Ojibway people would tie sinew strands in a web around a small round or tear-shaped frame–in a somewhat similar pattern to how they tied webbing for their snowshoes–and hang this “dream-catcher” as a charm to protect sleeping children from nightmares. The legend is that the bad dreams will get caught in the dreamcatcher’s web. Traditionally Native American dreamcatchers are small (only a few inches across) and made of bent wood and sinew string with a feather hanging from the netting, but wrapping the frame in leather is also pretty common, and today you’ll often see dreamcatchers made with sturdier string meant to last longer and decorated with beaded thongs. During the pan-Indian movement in the 60’s and 70’s, Ojibway dreamcatchers started to get popular in other Native American tribes, even those in disparate places like the Cherokee, Lakota, and Navajo. So dreamcatchers aren’t traditional in most Indian cultures, per se, but they’re sort of neo-traditional, like frybread. Today you see them hanging in lots of places other than a child’s cradleboard or nursery, like the living room or your rearview mirror. Some Indians think dream-catchers are a sweet and loving little tradition, others consider them a symbol of native unity, and still others think of them as sort of the Indian equivalent of a tacky plastic Jesus hanging in your truck.”



(A more in-depth history, including the above information, can be found here Dreamcatcher - New World Encyclopedia)



Addressing Legal Concerns:



To make things easier, this next section will handle just the legal side of things, and being that the legal system is not known for “gray areas” or personal interpretations/opinions/assumptions, this section will be fairly short comparatively. This will be done in a simple to read “Question, Answer, Explanation” format:



Question: Can they use the word “Dreamcatcher”?



Answer: Yes



Explanation: While a single word, or phrase, may be trademarked when used a certain way or in certain context (example: “Apple” is trademarked when used with computers and electronics”) it is much harder to get copyrighted, especially the more common it’s use or meaning, or part of accepted/everyday language the word is.



Question: Can they use and sell images of dreamcatchers in their music videos, on album covers/photos or as part of physical merchandise?



Answer: Yes

Explanation: Again, a “general or type of” object is difficult to trademark or patent, and an “idea” of something has always been the most difficult type of patent to obtain, if at all. In most cases it is the specific components of an item (usually in a specific pattern) that are unique to it, or created specifically for it, that are used for the patent/trademark instead.



As with any other art or craft form, it is the creator of the design/artwork itself that owns and determines how their work can be used. Just like any drawing or painting, the images on the album covers, in the photos, etc., are considered, by the law, the original creations of Happy Face Entertainment/Dreamcatcher Company, and as such they are free to use and sell them as they choose. Something can even be based on or inspired by an already existing design, and so long as it itself is an original creation, can be used and sold as its creator decides.



Now, there are laws in place to protect all Native American artworks and creations from being sold and used, but the specifics of those laws stipulate that it is only when the authenticity of the work is in question. For example: You can make or draw a dreamcatcher of your own, and use it and sell it how you please, as long as you do not claim that it is an “Authentic or Hand-made” Native American item, when it’s not. The laws are there to prevent fraud, not the creation of, the items.



Addressing the claims of Racism or Racist actions and Cultural Appropriation and/or Insensitivity:



This next section covers what I have seen as being the most common type of comment made regarding this issue. Not the “Can they do it…” but the “Should they do it…”, that being, is their use of the word/s and images and items themselves signs of Cultural Appropriation and/or Racism? (I will also us a more standard writing format, since this topic is not easily explained using a “Question/Answer” format) First, lets handle the accusations of racism:



The majority of the time, when something has been labeled as “racist” or an “act of racism” that fact alone is enough to give whatever the act was a negative connation, which, when it’s used correctly, is one of its purposes. The problems come when the term is used incorrectly. It not only can cause many problems for those involved, including the potential for legal consequences, but just as, if not more importantly, it lessens the importance of the term and what it’s meant to be used for.

Regarding the use of the term being applied to Dreamcatcher the group, its members, or their associated companies, is simply incorrect given the definition of the term. First, no races are specifically mentioned, referenced or indicated, let alone Native Americans specifically. I will say that by using a dreamcatcher in their name and the images in their album covers and videos could be said to be an unspoken reference to Native Americans, as the dreamcatcher is one of the most common images associated with them. That said, there is still no evidence of any negative intent in its use, nor any negative connotations directed toward the Native American people or their culture.



There are a lot of consequences from making accusations of racism against a group or individual, especially when the accusations are incorrectly or falsely made. I will cover more about this in the final section of this article.



My apologies if this next part is a bit long, but the subject of Cultural Appropriation is a bit more complicated, not only to explain, but to define, as there are a lot of other factors involved that influence it. Most often it seems when this accusation is made it is using the first part of the definition referring to the use of something from a culture, by someone who is not from the same culture. Which is a fine place to start, however the remaining part of the definition is usually ignored, that being that it is done without showing knowledge of the items use or significance to the culture.



Yes, they use the name, and yes, they use dreamcatchers in their videos and photos and such, as well as the stylized ones for their albums and logos, so according to the first part of the definition, then appropriation would apply. However, it’s the remaining part of the definition, and the intent of the use, that does not apply. For there to be appropriation taking place, all of these things must be met. And it really is the other parts of the definition that are the most important here, as the first part is simply too vague on its own.



The reason behind this, is that if we just use the first part, then not only the majority of Kpop music and videos, but those from all over the world, would be guilty of appropriation. Not too mention just about everyone has committed an act of appropriation if we follow only the first part, from using items, words, phrases from other cultures in videos and posts, to using our favorite groups logos or names as social media nicknames, too using various images as avatars, the list and possibilities are nearly endless. That’s why the other part of the definition, and the intent behind the use are so important. So, let’s look at the use of the dreamcatcher using the entire definition, and to help make it easier to read, I’ll break it apart into sections like above…

The Word:



Regarding the name “Dreamcatcher”, is an English word that became associated with the Native American item since about 1929 by the ethnographer Frances Densmore. Normally that would be enough to stall the accusation, but since it is practically synonymous with the item, we’ll go farther. It is actually the closest English translation of the group’s name “드림캐쳐” (“Dream Catcher” two separate words). To go further, after speaking with several representatives of the Ojibwe tribe (commonly known as Chippewa in the United states, and the earliest recorded people to use the dreamcatcher in question) and as a culture they don’t prefer using that term for the item, they prefer the use of the word “asabikeshiinh”. Since they only use the Korean and English versions of their name, this actually does not meet the requirements of the definition of appropriation in this case. Now some will say “well, it references the item itself, so…” and so we will cover that next…



The Physical Item:



Again, according to the first part of the definition, this would be true, and since we cover ed that above, we’ll go straight to the second half.



The second part of the definition relates to the item being used in a way that shows the lack of understanding by the user of its intended use or significance. So, for that, let’s take a look at how the dreamcatcher is used as part of the Groups concept and storyline throughout their videos. (I will be using information gathered from interviews with the members themselves about the concept)



The basic concept that the group went with was that of horror/thriller/suspense. The story starts with what appears to some kind of paranormal investigator checking out a haunted hotel. He discovers it is haunted by 7 spirits who then continue to torment him throughout his stay there. Throughout the next few videos, we find out that the 7 girls were turned into “Nightmares”, vengeful spirits from Korean folklore. In particular, each member represents a different type of Nightmare, and the begin attacking the investigator character through his dreams.



In the second video, we learn that the investigator character is in fact a “hunter” of these Nightmare spirits, and we see his attempts to entrap and/or destroy these spirits. This is again confirmed by the group members in various interview videos. This is also the first video that clearly shows that among all of the “hunter’s” possessions is a typical dreamcatcher.

In the third video, which is a prequal to the series, we see the girls before they became the nightmare spirits, and watch as they go through the initial transformation. Again, we see dreamcatchers in various background shots, most notably during the scenes where each member begins their transformation into Nightmares.



In the next video, we seem them a bit older, and it seems that all but one of them have freed themselves from being Nightmares, and we watch as they try and save the final member. Again, we see dreamcatchers in various spots throughout the video.



In their following videos, they (the dreamcatchers) do appear again, and while the situations in the videos may seem quite different it was confirmed in other interviews from the group members, and even with items from previous videos being included in them, that they are in fact all part of the same overall story.



Now, the point of all this information is to show that given the second part of the definition, the group, and their management companies, do indeed understand the purpose and significance of a dreamcatcher, that being to protect oneself or others from nightmares.



The “hunter” character shows that he is using it to help protect himself from the “Nightmares”, and in the other videos they are shown either being in a position that would indicate they are either there to help the situation, or done as a way of showing the view that the scene was important in the creation or story of the Nightmares.



We also should look at the intent behind how they were used in the videos. At no time is there shown any malicious intent, either by the companies involved, or the groups members, whether in the videos, or in their personal videos. There is no negative connotation directed to any other races or peoples, let alone Native Americans. While this is not part of the definition, it is important to take into account the context that the items are used in.



Now, for this next part, we’ll go over what seems to be, in the comments I’ve read and seen so far, what seems to be what angers people the most. Thant being that the dreamcatcher is an item that is sacred to Native Americans, and as such, regardless of any other reason, it is inappropriate to use. And that’s where thing begin to get more complicated. One of the main factors for the complication is that the comments I’ve seen all make their accusations and claims either by or on behalf of Native Americans and their culture as a whole. In a majority of situations this would probably be fine and appropriate, however the topic of dreamcatchers doesn’t quite fit into that. The reason being that while there is a Native American culture as a whole, each tribe has their own unique culture and traditions as well. And while some view it as a sacred or traditional item, there are others that just view it as minor part, and some that don’t have it as a part at all.

And this applies to being traditional as well. According to the Ojibwe people, it has been a tradition of theirs since at least 1929 (according to the oldest recorded history of the item) and wasn’t shared or spread to most other tribes until the late 1960’s or 70’s making them neo-traditional (new tradition). There are some tribes that don’t use them at all.



Use of the term/word InSomnia:



So as not to repeat a lot of the information above, it is apparent that they have all the legal rights to use the word.



As for its association with the medical disorder, I would hope the evidence above, as well as all of the videos they have explaining the name and why they chose it, would show that these are not people who would use it without knowledge of its meaning, nor would they use it with a negative connotation towards those with this condition. Also, this is one of those times where use of the word can be complicated, as it is Latin, and Latin being a dead language (meaning that here are no longer any native speakers alive anymore, nor have there been any for some time) and the word itself has several meanings.



Now, granted, technically they probably should have used the word InSomnium, as it has a more direct meaning of “In Dreams”, but both words can technically be translated as either meaning (“In Sleep or sleepless” or In Dreams”), depending on the intent of its use.



Some final words to close this out:



I will try to keep this short, this article ended up longer than I expected it would be. So, first off, if for any reason you do not like the group, or their music, that’s perfectly ok. This article is not meant to try and make people like them. I will always respect anyone’s choices, and certainly have no expectations that everyone will like the group or music, that would just be unrealistic. I also have no issue whatsoever with people expressing their opinions about anything, whether its liking something or not, the only thing I ask is to remain respectful of others, their rights to their opinion, and to express it. The time that issues arise are when expressing a personal opinion becomes claims of expressing one for a group or people that that they are not in a position to claim representation for, or worse, outright accusation rather than opinion.



The reason for this being a personal opinion is just one persons thoughts and feelings, which is fine, but when one begins making claims on behalf of others whom they may have no right to speak for, this can become very complicated, and of course making accusations or claims of something as a fact, whether as an individual or as a self-proclaimed spokesperson for others, can even lead to legal issues, as without evidence of the accusations it can be considered slander and defamation of character.

Not everyone will like the same things, that’s just how it is, but that doesn’t mean we can discuss and listen, learn from and show each other the respect. This includes the groups, their members, and companies in question, showing them the respect, they deserve, even just for being people the same as us.



For those that feel that they have a proper claim of any of the issues contained in this article, rather than posting public claims of fact, accusations, or for those few out there, hate filled messages towards the group/members/companies, I would suggest instead to follow the proper legal way of reporting the issue. Keeping in mind that evidence will be required and not personal feelings or opinion.



If you are of a specific tribe, such as the Ojibwe for example, and have an issue with the groups use of anything listed here, you should have access to all the proper legal channels through the tribal leaders and headquarters to take proper action.



If not a Native American, then your best options are to either contact the closest tribal headquarters and see what your options are after reporting the issue, and if they wish they will take over from there. You can of course seek legal counsel of your own and proceed from there.



The reason I suggest taking proper legal routes over posting angry accusations and claims, is as most of us know, most Korean companies are very protective of their groups and their reputations, and if something is done that seems like it could damage that, they have been shown to have no issues with seeking legal action even against individuals to stop the claims if not proven true.



In closing, a lot of this can all be avoided if we simply treat each other with respect. It is possible to express dislike for something, without being disrespectful of people’s opinions and rights as well. I understand a lot of people, if you have read this far, will not like this article and disagree with it, and that’s ok. All I ask is that when commenting or replying to others, again, be respectful. Thank you so much for taking the time read this, and I hope that perhaps this has helped clear things up a bit.

 

[Jimimis]

You could’ve just said “cultural appropriation doesn’t exist dudes” and left it at that but I appreciate the work ethic

 

[yeji]

I hate how fast people are coming for dc

 

[OnlyCalB]

People really like this idea of "Globalisation" with the whole world and different cultures coming together etc.

Yet when cultures are used as pure inspiration, with absolutely no ill intent, some people loose their shit. They become possessive and cry out they have been "offended".

I put it down to the over-sensitive nature society is becoming and not actually how most people whose culture has been used as inspiration feel. But when the over-sensitive minority is loud enough to be heard it gets frustrating. They are closed-minded and can't be bothered to comprehend the good intentions of those they feel have offended them.

Even when they are told of the honest intent and inspiration, they still cry out they are offended. And then this pathetic "cancel culture" beings where they try to force their over-sensitive views on others.

Dreamcatcher have nothing to be sorry for, either for the use of the name or symbolism they use. And their fandom name is absolutely fine.

 

[jasque]

I wonder which groups will these people be left stanning.

 

[DrowningFishy]

People really like this idea of "Globalisation" with the whole world and different cultures coming together etc.

Yet when cultures are used as pure inspiration, with absolutely no ill intent, some people loose their shit. They become possessive and cry out they have been "offended".

I put it down to the over-sensitive nature society is becoming and not actually how most people whose culture has been used as inspiration feel. But when the over-sensitive minority is loud enough to be heard it gets frustrating. They are closed-minded and can't be bothered to comprehend the good intentions of those they feel have offended them.

Even when they are told of the honest intent and inspiration, they still cry out they are offended. And then this pathetic "cancel culture" beings where they try to force their over-sensitive views on others.

Dreamcatcher have nothing to be sorry for, either for the use of the name or symbolism they use. And their fandom name is absolutely fine.

I love how segregation was ended and now some people are self segregating.

 

[Somnia]

I saw a few spew hate towards Dreamcatcher since 2018 on Twitter about the same issue. I am not gonna lie when I saw some teaser pics of this comeback I was like "They will mention it again because of how Gahyeon looked", but then I saw their logo for this comeback and some people said it looks like Norse Mythology.

Next we won't have any rap in Kpop anymore because it too is racist to use...

 

[blueberries]

I feel like this whole issue people have taken over name Dreamcatcher and using it as symbols is perfect example of how toxic claims of cultural appropriation can be. It's like textbook case on how to be offended over sth non-offensive at all.

And don't get me started with imsomnia..