Fourteenth Global Studies Conference

Abstract

This research explores the effects of standards and patterns of describing indigenous knowledge by contemporary information institutions. It builds upon a premise that indigenous sovereignty depends on communities’ rights to access and benefit from records and information managed by non-indigenous institutions, especially those supporting the functioning of the state government. It argues that the current means of handling indigenous knowledge in information institutions remain a major obstacle to realizing indigenous political, economic and cultural rights. The research focuses on practices and norms of handling indigenous knowledge by libraries and archives located in North America. It analyzes Library of Congress classification scheme, and subject headings, and professional standards of administering information and record management. The research advocates for collaborative approach to handling indigenous knowledge, and identifies practices of culturally sensitive records and knowledge management. This research contributes to the development of theme of biopolitics by emphasizing a critical role of records and record management practices in controlling indigenous populations.