When Indigenous cultural heritage is turned into commodities, issues of appropriation are inevitably raised, along with debates surrounding identity, property, and sovereignty.
While commodification can be disrespectful and detrimental to those whose property is turned into products, there are also ways in which it can be beneficial to communities. Bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars, this international symposium addresses the complex nature of cultural commodification.
The overall aim is to ask not only how cultural heritage can be protected, but also in what forms and under what conditions markets have been, and can be used, to reinforce Indigenous peoples’ cultural, economic, and political autonomy. Download PDF of symposium poster.
- Event summary— Cultural Commodification Symposium & Workshop a Great Success (Brian Egan, May 2013)
- Appropriation and Commodification of Cultural Heritage: Ethical & IP Issues to Consider — FACT SHEET
- Commodifications of Cultural Heritage - Themed Syllabi
- Commodifications of Cultural Heritage Video Viewing Guides
