Indigenous Writing Style

Elements of Indigenous Style: A Guide for Writing By and About Indigenous Peoples by Dr. Gregory Younging, represents an authoritative work regarding the incorporation of Indigenous style elements in writing. Consulting this work can therefore be recommended by Ontario Tech University when engaging in this process of writing.

This Indigenous style guide includes:

• Advice on issues related to editing, including the usage of language reflecting cultural bias, capitalization rules and guidance on how to quote Indigenous or historical source of information or archives.

• Case studies showcasing best practices.

• Considerations of culturally appropriate publishing, collaboration, and advice seeking from Elders.

• Guidance on specific terminology usage related to Indigenous peoples. 

• Principles to guide writing when incorporating elements of Indigenous style.

Additonal resources for incorporating Indigenous style into your writing:

• 12 Ways to Better Choose Our Words When We Write About Indigenous Peoples-Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada-adapted from Younging (2018).

• Indigenous Information Literacy-Rachel Chong.

• Indigenous Peoples Editorial Resource-University of Alberta.

• Indigenous Resources-Ontario Tech Library.

• Writing Guide for Indigenous Content-Government of British Columbia.