Which statement best describes a potential negative consequence of cultural festivals if mismanaged?

• A. They can create tension and exclusion.
• B. They celebrate heritage.
• C. They foster inclusion.
• D. They have no impact on identity.

Answer: (A)

Cultural festivals carry the potential to unite people, but if they’re mismanaged, that potential can flip into harm. When planners don’t involve diverse communities, overlook accessibility, or misrepresent cultures, certain groups can feel ignored, stereotyped, or marginalized. That can lead to tension between communities and a sense of exclusion from the event, which harms social cohesion. The positive outcomes—celebrating heritage and fostering inclusion—depend on deliberate, inclusive planning, and assuming there’s no impact on identity ignores how these events shape how people see themselves and others. So, the main risk described is that mismanaged festivals can create tension and exclusion.