The Problem with "Traditional Knowledge"

Let’s talk about a phrase we didn’t choose. But can’t escape. Yet!

“Traditional Knowledge.”

It’s in UN reports.
Climate frameworks.
Policy briefs.
Funding proposals.

But here’s the truth:

We didn’t create this term.

It was placed on us.
Framed around us.
Used to describe our knowledge, without our language.

And that matters.

Because in diplomacy:

• Terms shape rights

• Language defines power

• Words build futures

So when the system calls it “traditional,” it traps our knowledge in the past.

It frames it as old.
Fixed.
Static.

Something to observe, not evolve.
Something to protect, not apply.

What We Call It Instead

We’re pushing a shift.

From: “Traditional Knowledge”
To: “Knowledge of Indigenous Peoples”

Because our knowledge isn’t locked in time.
It lives. It adapts. It responds.
It’s rooted in land, but it reaches forward.

This shift matters.

Not just for accuracy.
But for power.

Because how they name our knowledge shapes how they treat it.

And if they frame it as “traditional,”
They’ll ignore its relevance.
Sideline its application.
Treat it like folklore, not strategy.

Want to Be an Ally?

Then watch your language.

In every meeting.
Every draft.
Every panel you sit on.

Use the terms we use.
Not the ones that reduce us.

Because language is never neutral.

It either lifts our people.
Or it limits them.

So choose words that move us forward.

Not ones that hold us back.

That’s the window.

See you next week!