Gathering knowledges to inform best practices in Indigenous publishing

Storytelling is at the core of Indigenous knowledge systems and ways of life. Indigenous community members—including Elders, storytellers, writers, poets, artists, scholars, activists, editors, and publishers—have worked for decades to increase Indigenous representation in publishing. Many feel a responsibility to share their stories, knowing that when published in a good way their stories can promote healing among Indigenous cultures, and address a lack of understanding among settler Canadians about Indigenous people’s lives and experiences. Through conducting interviews and readings and reflecting on my own experience, I gathered knowledge about some themes and concerns repeatedly raised in discussions around publishing for and by Indigenous people. I put what I learned into practice with this project, creating one model for learning how to share stories in a good way in the publishing industry.