Native American and Indigenous Studies

Indigenous Oral Histories are significant sources of knowledge for Indigenous Peoples. Historically, Western society has not properly acknowledged Indigenous Oral Histories and as such these Histories have been devalued, stolen or appropriated. Oral Histories may include works that Westerners would label as folklore or myths. Elder Knowledge is a form of Oral Histories that Westerners would label as "personal communications". In Indigenous Communities all Oral Histories are authoritative sources and should be treated with care and respect. 

Oral History: Web Resources

• Raven Space - multimedia, peer reviewed, community reviewed, Elder Knowledge, Oral Histories, ebooks
• Four Directions Teachings - Elder Knowledge, Oral Histories
• Circle of Indigenous Languages - Stories shared by Elders and community members in their Indigenous language
• Storywork Give Away for Educators - Amy Parent offers guidelines on the use of oral and traditional stories

Oral History: DVDs and Streaming

• The Myth of Aboriginal Stories Being Myth (streaming)
• Indigenous Storywork in Practice with Jo-ann Q’um Q’um Xiiem Archibald (streaming)

Thank you to the Kwantlen Polytechnic University's Indigenous Studies Guide for these resources and context. Please also see their page on citing Indigenous oral histories.