IllumiNative - IllumiNative’s resource page provides tools to help you amplify a new narrative about Native peoples in media, pop culture, k-12 education, and other critical sectors. They provide downloadable resources around the topics of representation, advocacy, guides, lesson plans, mascots, and research.
Native Knowledge 360° - The Impact of Words and Tips for Using Appropriate Terminology: Am I Using the Right Word? - The National Museum of the American Indian provides some additional information about terminology, as well as foundational concepts around the diversity of Native cultures.
Native Now - The Dos and Don’ts of Talking Respectfully About and With Native People - See IllumiNative's resources for this guide on how to talk in a respectful way in the classroom or with friends:
When interacting directly with Native peoples or governments, make sure to be respectful and follow the appropriate protocols. If you are not sure what they are, ask!
Some general things to keep in mind include:
Tribal leaders should be treated with the same respect as other government leaders. “Behave towards our Nation’s leaders with the same or stricter protocol and reverence as the leader of your nation (e.g., you would never email or text the President of the United States of America directly unless you are already in familial or otherwise deep relationship with them).” - The Cedarville Band of Piscataway Indians
Understand that Native identity is a political identity based on citizenship in a sovereign Indigenous nation. It is determined by the community, not by the individual. Having Native American ancestry does not automatically afford someone citizenship in a particular nation. Only sovereign Indigenous nations have the authority to determine who is or is not a citizen.
If you intend to approach an Elder or Knowledge Keeper for teachings, ask ahead of time about the proper protocol or any traditions that must be respected regarding the information given. Lorisia MacLeod notes that researchers who intend to cite teachings from Knowledge Keepers should be aware of any temporal or seasonal restrictions to knowledge. “The scholar should discuss that in depth with the Knowledge Keeper if they are considering including that knowledge in a publication that may be read at any time.” - “More Than Personal Communication: Templates for Citing Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers”
“You Can Stop Appropriation of Indigenous Cultures” by Cultural Survival provides links to articles, podcasts, film, and other resources to get acquainted with controversies and perspectives around cultural appropriation
“Native Cultural Appropriation” by We R Native provides an overview of what is and isn’t cultural appropriation, and provides additional links and resources
“Native Appropriation Isn’t Appreciation. It Causes Real Harm.” by Sarah Rose Harper of the Lakota People’s Law Project provides some historical context and discusses cases of corporate appropriation of Native culture for profit
