The White House is actively working on integrating 'indigenous knowledge' into federal regulatory policy. This initiative gained momentum following President Biden's executive order early in his term, focusing on tribal self-determination. The administration subsequently organized a White House summit on tribal nations and established an interagency working group to develop government-wide guidance on indigenous knowledge.
Released in late 2022, the 46-page guidance document defines indigenous knowledge as observations, oral and written knowledge, innovations, practices, and beliefs developed by Tribes and Indigenous Peoples through their experiences with the environment. It encompasses biological, physical, social, cultural, and spiritual systems.
Federal agencies like the EPA, FDA, and CDC are now incorporating indigenous knowledge into their scientific integrity practices. While tribal knowledge can offer valuable insights, it often involves subjective understandings related to culture, stories, and values rather than empirically-derived data.
Scientists caution against equating indigenous knowledge with science, emphasizing that it should complement scientific information rather than replace it. The challenge lies in distinguishing between various indigenous knowledge systems, as they can vary significantly among the more than 500 federally-recognized tribes.
While acknowledging the importance of indigenous knowledge, experts stress the need for responsible integration into policy decisions. Incorporating indigenous insights should occur during stakeholder meetings and feedback sessions, ensuring that unverified claims do not influence regulatory analyses.
It is crucial to differentiate between scientific research and subjective belief systems to maintain the integrity of federal regulatory processes. By handling indigenous knowledge with care and transparency, federal agencies can benefit from diverse perspectives without compromising scientific rigor.
