INDIGENOUS ORAL TRADITIONS AND DIGITAL STORY-TELLING

Abstract

Indigenous communities around the world rely heavily on their oral traditions to maintain their cultural identity, knowledge systems, and social cohesiveness. This chapter examines the changing relationship between digital storytelling and oral traditions, emphasizing how modern technology makes it possible to preserve, share, and retell ancestors' stories. Indigenous storytellers are taking back narrative control and encouraging intergenerational involvement through the integration of multimedia platforms, interactive digital archives, and community-driven content development. The chapter looks at case studies that show how digital storytelling challenges colonial portrayals of history and culture, fosters language revitalization, and amplifies Indigenous voices. Additionally, it discusses ethical issues including consent, cultural sensitivity, and intellectual property, highlighting cooperative frameworks that adhere to social norms. The discussion highlights how digital media may maintain oral traditions while preserving their performative and communal nature. When it comes to digital storytelling, the chapter ultimately promotes a decolonial perspective in which technology is used as a tool for empowerment, cultural resilience, and the dynamic continuity of Indigenous knowledge systems.