Balancing the Fine Line Between Proper Representation and Stereotypes: Native Attire

By: Alex Lunger

An essential aspect of the KUNA experience comes from discovering the culture of each and every country represented. Culture, an important facet of any nation, is depicted in many forms, ranging from Global Village to International Stage. But, no matter the country, its culture can be rooted in Native Attire.

Whether speaking in terms of the light, intricately detailed dresses of Kenyans or the classically known baseball caps of Americans, the culture of the many diverse peoples around the world are recognized on the basis of their clothing.

Delegates at KUNA played off of this notion, taking what information they both knew and researched to create Native Attire of their selected countries. But every delegate had to keep one crucial thought in mind whilst forming their Native Attire: At what point were they stereotyping?

Many aspects were involved when the various delegations created Native Attires. Taking into consideration things like the most commonly known themes, ideas, and values of the countries, delegations knew the people had to be properly represented at this year’s mock United Nations.

The delegation representing Brazil knew this was imperative in giving an accurate image of their country. Sarah Seiver, culturally dressed in a flowy white blouse and long blue skirt, took her true inspiration from the exchange student at her school.

Haley Gipson, representing the country of Egypt, said her delegation has their own take in developing their native attire, “I think it’s easier to set stereotypes than create [our] own look,” she said. Though stereotypes will never be the standard, she explains, you can always “take it and make it distinct to that country.”

Every country has the characteristics that make it commonly known to the rest of the world. Often, these characteristics are turned into stereotypes, diminishing the image of its people and culture. But, with enough time and thought, these commonly known details of each country can transform into the beauties most popularly recognized. Many delegations were able to accomplish this at the Kentucky United Nations Assembly of 2019.