[Galadriel]

I hope you guys don't mind me replying here.
Personally I would assume that "going native" is the best way for you to understand the culture that you're in and for that culture/community to accept you and allow you to be more involved in different aspects of that community. To make an effort to separate yourself (culturally) you miss out on experiences and knowledge while also endangering yourself.
I spent some time on a Navajo reservation in N.Mexico -- participated in some ceremonies, slaughtered sheep, made mutton, learned the language, etc... Yes, some of the natives (actually some of the older women) were upset to see a white woman involved in some of thier special ceremonies. One of the medicine men kind of took me under his wing while I was there and put a lot of time into teaching several aspects of thier culture and heritage to me. I think this is all due to the fact that I was open minded, asked pointed questions, and made every effort to do things thier way. I fell in love with thier culture, spirituality, and traditions. So I find "going native" an easy thing to do, and certainly, I'd fight along side them if someone or some group was violating thier rights.
I honestly envy you guys here that get the opportunity to "go native" with different cultures. It also shows a lot about you as an individual (at least in my opinion).