About the IEA

• Respectful representation of Indigenous Peoples in published books is a right protected by Section 35 of Canada's Constitution Act, 1982, and by Article 31 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

• Literatures by Indigenous authors and about Indigenous Peoples ought to be edited by Indigenous editors.
• Ethical principles about Indigenous cultural heritage ownership ought to supersede copyright laws.
• Indigenous communities have collective ownership over their Traditional Knowledge.
• The publication of a book is all about clearly defined, transparent, respectful relationships.
• Indigenous authors are not necessarily bound by the conventions of established literary genres.
• It is the responsibility of the editor and therefore the publisher to mentor emerging Indigenous writers where possible.
• Ceremony is a potential resource for building collaborative relationships built on sacred trust.
• Vetting, reviewing, and consultation regarding Indigenous content needs to be by an Indigenous person.

• Publishing houses need to take an interest in, and safeguard and support, the cultural integrity of Indigenous editors.
• Teams of reviewers and vetters must include culturally competent members.

The Indigenous Editors Circle recommends setting aside a specific portion of public funding for writers to support Indigenous writers.

The Indigenous Editors Circle envisions Canadian publishers that will:

• respond responsibly to feedback about publications that are offensive to Indigenous readers;
• undergo Indigenous cultural sensitivity training;
• recruit and retain Indigenous editors to publish and develop Indigenous authors;
• provide career guidance to new Indigenous authors, mindful of the potential responsibilities of authors to provide public readings in home communities that might be far away; and
• respect the localities and diversities of place, language, sexual orientation, and multiple genders.