Is Ankara Wear Really For Africa?

Many years ago, Ankara used to be known as the most used fabric amongst Africans. However, it lost its use with the introduction of western forms of clothing. This newly found love with foreign forms of clothing among other factors eventually led to its collapse.
In its real state though, the origin of Ankara is not at all African but rather European. Ankara, which is also known as ‘Dutch wax print’, was originally manufactured by the Dutch for the Indonesian textile market. But by design, these prints garnered more interest in West Africa than in Indonesia which led the Dutch to focus more on West Africa.
The main reason appropriation hurts people is because it downplays historical oppression. When fashion houses of the dominant race include traditionally ‘African’ prints and clothes on their runway, they are applauded for inclusion and gain monetary value for doing what the oppressed are being mocked for.