Research and Writing (RaW): Indigenous Knowledge

Indigenous Knowledge* refers to the complex, place-based understandings and practices developed by Native and local communities over many generations. It is often rooted in and informed by oral traditions, cultural protocols, relationships with the ʻāina, community values, and lived experiences.

Western paradigms of education typically emphasize written texts, standardized methods, and peer-reviewed sources. Indigenous Knowledge is holistic, relational, and frequently transmitted through storytelling, observation, ceremony, and hands-on learning. While Western academic systems have historically devalued such knowledge, there is growing recognition that multiple ways of knowing can (and should!) coexist to enrich research, learning, and decision-making. Recognizing the value of Indigenous Knowledge and respecting its origins is an essential aspect of conducting inclusive and ethical research. 

*Other ways of thinking about or describing Indigenous Knowledge may include: Traditional Knowledge, Ancestral Knowledge, Indigenous Ways of Knowing, and Native Knowledge. Each of these concepts may carry different weight or appropriateness depending on the discipline, the geographic region, or the preferences of its community (i.e. the one being referred to). When in doubt, it's best to use the language that the community itself uses to describe its own knowledge systems.

When approaching research involving Indigenous Knowledge, researchers should think critically about how the knowledge is shared, who holds it, and how to engage with it responsibly. Best practices include:

• Engaging with community voices directly whenever possible.
• Using sources created by and for Indigenous communities (e.g., local organizations, oral histories, or community publications).
• Being respectful of sacred knowledge, which may not be appropriate to share or cite publicly.
• Avoiding extractive approaches + looking for ways to give back to the community and/or honor the source of knowledge.

To elaborate further, researchers must recognize that Indigenous Knowledge is not just information to be consumed (e.g., to support their own argument on a research topic). Indigenous Knowledge may be considered a living part of a communityʻs identity, relationships, and responsibilities. Researchers should thus strive for ethical reciprocity. This involves:

• Seeking permission before using community-held knowledge, especially if it is not already in the public domain or widely known.
• Properly crediting the individuals or communities who have shared the knowledge.
• Sharing research findings with the community in accessible ways.
• Supporting the goals, sovereignty, and cultural preservation efforts of Indigenous communities.
• Reflecting on your own position and privileges as a researcher, and avoiding speaking for communities rather than with them.