Elements of Indigenous Style: Insights and applications for the book industry

From acquisitions and editorial to marketing and sales teams, every team member plays a role in accurately, respectfully, and ethically championing Indigenous and traditionally underrepresented voices. This session, led by Warren Cariou, Lead Editor of the second edition of Gregory Younging’s Elements of Indigenous Style, is for book industry professionals eager to learn and apply Indigenous teachings to their work. Using Elements of Indigenous Style as a foundation, this session delves into its mind-opening content, which goes beyond the scope of a traditional style guide. The book advocates for the indigenization of publishing and addresses topics such as culturally appropriate publishing practices; understanding identity and community affiliation; Two-Spirit, trans, and Indigiqueer contexts; practices to support Indigenous linguistic and cultural sovereignty; and emerging issues in the digital environment. Warren provides actionable recommendations and best practices for publishers working on literary projects by or about Indigenous authors, which can be applied more broadly to other underrepresented communities. Kaitlin Littlechild from the Indigenous Editors Association brings her expertise to the discussion as the moderator.