One of the misconceptions I encounter when discussing the topic of culture is the belief that "culture" is something done by the "other" rather than oneself. For example, I primarily discuss the topic of culture with white, cis-gendered, male, middle-class, Americans, with an upbringing in Christianity. Thus, for this type of person "culture" is something that non-white, non-American, non-Christian and poor people have, but not "us". Furthermore, this misconception is often politicized. That is to say, what is considered "liberal" is often a preference for cultures other than our own. Whereas, what is considered "conservative" is a tendency for one's own cultural (and is often derided as "bigoted" or "close-minded".)
This is the very point I want to make--white, middle-class, straight, males from American and Europe
do have their own culture. And we shouldn't be discouraged by those who call the practice of our culture "bigotry" and "hatred". I'm proud of my culture. In this thread, I want to celebrate the tenants of white, straight, male, American, middle-class, Christian culture.
Why should the "other" have claim to the category of "culture"? Why should Native Americans, Mexicans, Blacks, LGBTQ, etc. have "culture" and not my own people? And further, why should their "culture" be superior to my own?
I'm proud because, in my culture, we eat food around a table with our friends and family. I'm proud because in my culture, one man marries one woman for life. I'm proud because, in my culture we believe in hard work and responsibility to support ourselves (and no the government).
