Social media and indigenous culture
#5 Truths and Trials of the Internet and Indigenous culture?
Many are concerned whilst only a few are confident that the advancement of communication technology, particularly Social Media can be a beneficial resource for Indigenous youth. The Internet has evolved from a format of communications that was primarily linear, definitive, highly structured and static (Web 1.0) to one that is cyclical, user value driven, open, transparent, collaborative and participatory (Social Media/web2.0) #1
According to Smith, Burke and Ward (2000), “the absence of geographic boundaries in communication technologies no longer provide for cultural distinction and way of life and these technologies continue the trend of western domination over Indigenous cultures.” #2
Smith, Burke and Ward(2000) also go on to say that education within Aboriginal communities is highly complex and can not be expressed through technology; it is virtually impossible to present the “fluid and multivalent characteristics of Indigenous systems of knowledge in an authentic manner, respecting traditional cultural values”. #3
These perceptions are prevalent today despite the growing use of mobile technology and social media amongst Indigenous youth. I understand the change of culture that is being brought by the advancement of technology and how it can be perceived as domination and disrespectful. However, it is evident that Indigenous young people are enjoying the benefits social media and technology has to offer and are using it to express themselves.
In another article Smith, Burke and Ward present the idea that the Internet is capable of promoting the recognition and acceptance of their cultural values to the wider community even globally. In the authors own words: “The contemporary production of Indigenous art, textiles and other artifacts for consumption by tourists is part of a long tradition of creating objects explicitly designed to be traded across boundaries and thus to serve as mechanisms for cross-cultural communication” (2000). #4
The most important point from these authors in my honest opinion is this very important factor that makes all the dots connect: “the Internet, with its particular reliance on visual imagery to be effective is such that it is not so far removed from traditional forms of Indigenous communication – the sense of community is immediate, given without interpretation by non-Indigenous people, except as technicians and facilitators where needed”. #5
