Funded by:
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
What we learned:
Intellectual Property (IP) Protection, Indigenous Cultural Expressions (ICE), artificial intelligence (AI) and Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR)
Year
2024
The Indigenous Intellectual Property Protection Program (IIPP) is a pioneering initiative designed to empower Indigenous communities with the knowledge and tools to protect their Traditional Knowledge (TK) and Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs). Through a series of educational workshops, research activities, and collaborative partnerships, the program addresses the intersection of Indigenous cultural heritage and the evolving intellectual property (IP) landscape in Canada.
The IIPP aims to ensure that Indigenous peoples’ rights to their knowledge, cultural expressions, and innovations are recognized and safeguarded, aligning with broader governmental commitments to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and fostering ethical collaboration and economic reconciliation.
This project was successfully completed in August 2024.
Project Description:
In partnership with academic institutions like the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, the University of Victoria Community-Based Research Lab, and the University of the Arctic, the project successfully engaged Indigenous youth and community members in learning about the protection of cultural heritage through the lens of intellectual property. Participants have gained a deeper understanding of their rights under Canada’s IP system, as well as how these protections can be used to preserve and celebrate their cultural expressions. One of the program’s exciting outcomes was the creation of a “measurement tool” by youth participants using OpenAI models, which helps assess how well activities aligned with the program’s goals.
While the program faced challenges, the spirit of collaboration, resilience, and commitment to the cause shone through. Research conducted with partner organizations provided valuable insights into how Indigenous knowledge can be better protected, ensuring that community rights are honored. Through workshops, seminars, and international conferences, the IIPP has created opportunities for global dialogue, bringing attention to the importance of IP protection in Indigenous communities.
Project Impacts and Outcomes:
The IIPP has made a positive and lasting impact on Indigenous youth, enhancing their awareness of IP rights and empowering them to take charge of protecting their cultural heritage. Youth participants have gained invaluable skills, which they can use to safeguard their Traditional Knowledge and contribute to broader conversations about innovation and sustainability. The program has also facilitated important cross-cultural exchanges, strengthening relationships and advancing Indigenous participation on the global stage, particularly around topics like AI and IP rights.
One of the most exciting outcomes has been the global recognition of the youth’s exceptional contributions, especially at international events like the Arctic Congress in Norway. Their participation has not only demonstrated Canada’s commitment to IP protection but also opened doors to new opportunities for collaboration. The program has highlighted the need for more accessible and culturally relevant education on IP, especially in regions like Nunavut and the broader Arctic, ensuring that even the most remote communities can benefit from IP protection.
Project Impacts and Outcomes
The IIPP made a positive and lasting impact on Indigenous youth, enhancing their awareness of IP rights and empowering them to take charge of protecting their cultural heritage. Youth participants have gained invaluable skills, which they can use to safeguard their Traditional Knowledge and contribute to broader conversations about innovation and sustainability. The program has also facilitated important cross-cultural exchanges, strengthening relationships and advancing Indigenous participation on the global stage, particularly around topics like AI and IP rights.
One of the most exciting outcomes has been the global recognition of the youth’s exceptional contributions, especially at international events like the Arctic Congress in Norway. Their participation has not only demonstrated Canada’s commitment to IP protection but also opened doors to new opportunities for collaboration. The program has highlighted the need for more accessible and culturally relevant education on IP, especially in regions like Nunavut and the broader Arctic, ensuring that even the most remote communities can benefit from IP protection.
Next Steps:
The IIPP’s journey is far from over, and there’s so much more to look forward to! Moving forward, the program will continue to integrate IP and ICE education into its curriculum, focusing on topics such as digital literacy, data management, and entrepreneurship in the arts, technology, and food sectors. With the strong support of institutions like the University of the Arctic, the program will continue to offer opportunities for youth to represent Canada through expanded international partnerships and collaboration.
The program will also refine and expand its innovative “measurement tool,” which will serve as a guide for evaluating the alignment of future activities with the goals of the IIPP. The lessons learned from this phase will help the program build a stronger foundation, ensuring that Indigenous communities are better supported in protecting their intellectual property and cultural heritage. With a renewed focus on inclusivity, fairness, and collaboration, the IIPP is poised to continue making a positive difference in the lives of Indigenous youth and communities for years to come. The future is bright, and the possibilities are endless!
