No, I totally get what you're saying, and it's basically where I'm coming from, too, I just sort of needed to get the thought process out there so I could feel validated when people agreed. :D It's not really fair to say, "Well, I don't feel I have my own culture, so I'd like to co-opt yours, plz." I mean really, though your suggestion to talk to someone from a cultural council is a good one, the very thought of it is enough to make me run screaming, which right there is an indication that it's not a good idea. You know, I really can't imagine any way to even phrase the question that isn't going to very likely be offensive. Which tells me the answer to my question, right there. (I find that's often the way of things... when you try to think of a way to put your question to somebody, you find the answer at the same time.)

I think what I'll probably end up doing is creating a more Greek or Roman inspired design, since I really don't think that conquerers can complain when future generations of the conquered end up drawing on their culture. ;D