What we are finding in more recent times is how representation has functioned through information retention and procedures and access. This is very true in the work of archives. This discussion for my Information Organization and Access class introduced me to Dr. Kim Christen’s study of how Traditional Knowledge Labels (TK Labels) would enhance discoverability and access when applied in archives collections, especially collections pertaining to indigenous people. Research has shown how minorities are underrepresented or at times excluded from collections. This has brought about Dr. Christen’s call to decolonize library practices in order to make collections accessible to the communities they represent. Through the application of core values and codes of ethics, such as the ones outlined by the Society of American Archivists, concepts like accountability and transparency are becoming prominent functions in archives and other collections.  

With this assignment, I realized that taking an objective look at how some of the archives collections were originally cultivated has revealed that the early settlers, colonists, scientists, and researchers may have done more harm to the indigenous people. This concept gave me pause to think how we view those collecting cultural artifacts and studying indigenous people as researchers, but to those they observed, it may have not been a mutual arrangement. What we view as early research and discovery has resulted in many cultures being altered, misunderstood, and taken for granted. This has led many indigenous and native peoples to rebuke access to their heritage, ultimately closing the door to current and future researchers. This is why Dr. Christen’s wants to standardize the use of TK Labels to reinstate authentic native voices and ownership. I am constantly reading and researching ways to make access more open while keeping the creators rights in mind. The concept of TK Labels not only makes sense, but it can help standardize records creation for cultural artifacts.