Tag Archives: aboriginal technology

Left out of the Conversation: The Digital Divide and #IdleNoMore

This article, written by the Prince Arthur Herald details the #Idle No More movement which is intent on having Aboriginals participate in social media. More importantly it discusses the problem with social media, even ones aimed at facilitating contact among natives. The problem lies with the inequality of internet distribution in Canada. This means that approximately only 50% of aboriginal voices are being heard. This highlights the need to improve infrastructure to make the internet more of a neutral forum.

http://princearthurherald.com/en/author/soo-min-kim-katie-gilfillan-jordana-saab-brault-an

Part 5 of 5

Dr. Suzanne Stewart is a very influential voice in the Native community. In this interview she discusses the importance of understanding education for natives both past and present. She highlights the need to take what was once used to oppress native people (education) and use it as a tool of empowerment. She feels education reform will allow aboriginals to better participate in the global world and also help educate those outside the Aboriginal communities about different, more holistic ways of learning.

Post 4 of 5

Longhouse Media

This site is dedicated to showcasing all of Longhouse Media’s current and past projects. The company aims to “catalyze indigenous people and communities to use media as a tool for self-expression, cultural preservation, and social change.” In looking through the site you will see familiar work like “March Point” which was reviewed by the class earlier. It is a great site for showing how modern media may be used in a positive way to tell the stories that are important to native people, from their voice.

http://www.longhousemedia.org/

Post 1 of 5

Traditional Knowledge and the Internet

http://www.cdu.edu.au/centres/ik/pdf/AbKnowInternet.pdf

This article, published by Charles Darwin University, examines aboriginal traditional knowledge thoroughly, showing the difference in western philosophy. It details traditional knowledge relatable various forms. Interestingly, in contrast to the previous traditional knowledge website I referenced, it views technology as a medium to bring power and voice to aboriginal people. It discusses the potential for the internet to become a a “virtual open ceremonial ground” where people can come together from different spaces and share traditional knowledge.

This is an excellent site for understanding the importance of traditional knowledge in indigenous culture