The Working Group on Traditional Knowledge was formed in October 1989 by Dennis Patterson, then Premier of the Northwest Territories, to “define traditional knowledge, examine its current and potential use, and identify obstacles and solutions which will increase its influence in northern society” (1). This plan emerged from the 1988 30th annual meeting of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO in Yellowknife, where the Premier discussed the importance of Traditional Knowledge with the commission.

The authors note that while it is difficult to assess the current use of traditional knowledge given their resources, many NWT departments have begun incorporating it into their work, though there is more to be done in this regard. They recommend greater involvement of elders, communities as holders of knowledge, higher status/influence for traditional knowledge within the territorial government, more traditional knowledge in education, social services, and the justice system, and more documentation of traditional knowledge. This being said, they also emphasize that preservation is best achieved through use, and that the oral tradition should be maintained as a reliable source of information and knowledge.

Obstacles to traditional knowledge use include lack of resources, lack of support and coordination between organizations, and inappropriate uses of traditional knowledge. The authors call for a Declaration of Recognition and Support for Traditional Knowledge, in addition to a detailed list of recommendations for best practices for departments, employees, and legislation.

Abstract:

Tabled document no, . 127-91-(1) tabled on Jul 04 1991 (Northwest Territories). This report from the Traditional Knowledge Working Group defines traditional knowledge as Knowledge deriving from, or rooted in, the traditional way of life of aboriginal people and discusses ways and means of integrating it into laws, policies, programs and services. Includes references.

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This book is available in several Canadian university libraries, ISBN 9780770838720.

Legat, Allice (ed.). Report of the Traditional Knowledge Working Group. Yellowknife: Department of Culture and Communications, Government of the Northwest Territories, 1991.