Insider/ Outsider Debate

I think the questions of who has the right to tell and illustrate stories about specific cultures and what is authentic literature are very hard to answer because I feel it really depends on a few things. First off, I think it is very important to know, just how informed is this so called "outsider" on the culture. Because to me, I feel that if the "outsider" has invested years of studying and learning a specific culture that they are not part of, should not be viewed as someone who cannot do a proper or complete job of writing or illustrating that culture, although it is not their culture. I believe that the "outsider" to that specific culture could be even more informed than an "insider" to that culture. Just because someone is a certain culture, does not mean that they know everything or a lot about their culture.

Second off, when thinking of what is or is not authentic literature or diverse/multicultural literature is not an easy or simple task. I think that many people view what is or is not in personal views. Sims Bishop brought up a very interesting point, he argues that "logically, the body of multicultural literature includes literature from all the cultures. Therefore, multicultural children's literature is the same as children's literature. Then why do we need a separate term?" (Sims Bishop, 6) I agree with his questioning of needing a separate term but understand as well as why it does help to have one. Which Cai argues that "multicultural literature is still a much needed separate category of literature, for its existence poses a challenge to the domination of all- White literature" (Cai, 316). I think it is too hard for one to say what is or is not authentic when dealing with diverse and multicultural literature. 

Lastly, I  believe that it is important for the information in the literature, whether it is written by an "insider" or "outsider" to the specific culture, to be well researched, filled with facts, portrays accurate illustrations or pictures, and stays away from stereotypes or negative views. As long as those are followed, it does not matter if an insider or outsider to the culture is the author or illustrator to a specific story or text.