NLA/MPLA Joint Conference

Libraries often serve as cultural bridges, yet efforts to highlight Indigenous art and history can unintentionally misrepresent or appropriate the communities they aim to honor. This presentation will explore practical, relationship-based approaches to acquiring, displaying, and creating programming around Native American cultural materials.

This session will outline key principles for ethical engagement, including consultation with Tribal Nations, respect for sovereignty, and adherence to cultural protocols. Through examples such as co-curated exhibits with tribal artists, participants will see how collaboration can ensure authenticity and cultural accuracy. The presentation will also address common pitfalls—such as tokenism, lack of consent, and misuse of sacred materials—and offer strategies to avoid harm.

Attendees will leave with actionable approaches for building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities, incorporating Indigenous perspectives into collections, and developing programming that reflects living cultures. Resources for continued learning will be provided.

By centering Indigenous voices and fostering respectful relationships, libraries can move beyond surface-level representation toward more meaningful and responsible engagement.