The Popularity of "Yellowstone" Has Unfortunate Consequences
This article examines how the runaway success of TV show "Yellowstone" has led suburbanites dress up like cowboys & cowgirls without considering potential implications & perpetuating stereotypes about rural Americans which can lead further misunderstanding between urban & rural communities
Jan. 12, 2023 6:38PM
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A photo showing two women wearing shearling jackets with one wearing a cowboy hat over her head looking away from camera while other looks directly into camera with concerned expression on her face
The hit television show “Yellowstone” has been a runaway success since its debut in 2018. The show follows the Dutton family, a powerful and wealthy Montana ranching dynasty, as they battle to protect their land from various adversaries. While the show is entertaining and has earned critical acclaim, it appears that its popularity has had some unfortunate consequences. In recent months, there has been an increase in suburbanites dressing in western-style clothing such as shearling jackets, cowboy hats and western shirts. One woman even went so far as to say “I got really into cowboy boots” after watching the show. While this may seem like harmless fun at first glance, it is important to remember that these items of clothing are part of a culture that many people have experienced oppression or marginalization due to their race or ethnicity. It is insensitive for people who do not belong to this culture to appropriate it without considering the implications of their actions. Furthermore, by engaging in this type of cultural appropriation, suburbanites are perpetuating stereotypes about rural Americans that are often untrue or exaggerated. These stereotypes can lead to further misunderstanding between rural and urban communities and can make it more difficult for those living in rural areas to be taken seriously when advocating for their rights or needs. Additionally, by glamorizing certain aspects of rural life while ignoring others such as poverty or lack of access to healthcare services, shows like “Yellowstone” contribute to an unrealistic view of what life is actually like for many people living in rural America today. Ultimately, while it may be tempting for suburbanites to embrace the trendiness associated with dressing up like cowboys and cowgirls thanks to shows like “Yellowstone”, they should consider how their actions might be perceived by those who actually live this lifestyle before doing so. Cultural appropriation can have serious consequences if not done with respect and understanding; thus it is important for everyone involved in this trend—from viewers at home all the way up to Hollywood producers—to think twice before engaging in activities that could potentially cause harm or offense towards others based on their culture or background.