Keeping Our Traditions Close to Home: A Message to Native Youth

In the age of social media, it’s easy to share every aspect of our lives online. Platforms like TikTok have become popular for people to express themselves and share their cultures. However, as Native Youth, we must be mindful of the implications of sharing our sacred traditions on these platforms.

The Importance of Our Traditions

Our traditions are the backbone of our communities. They connect us to our ancestors, our land, and our beliefs. They are deeply personal and sacred and are not meant to be shared lightly. Here is a deeper look into the importance of our traditions and why we must protect them.

The Risks of Sharing Online

We risk exposing our traditions to misuse and misinterpretation when we share our traditions online. We also risk violating our privacy and the privacy of our communities. This article explains more about the risks of sharing personal information online.

The Issue of Data Privacy

Platforms like TikTok collect a vast amount of data on their users. This data can be used in ways we may not be comfortable with. Understanding the data privacy implications of using these platforms is important before deciding to share our traditions on them. TikTok has confirmed that employees based in China can access U.S. user data through approval protocols.

Alternatives to Sharing Online

There are many ways to celebrate and share our traditions without posting them online. For example, we can participate in community events, teach our traditions to younger generations, or create art representing our culture. Here are some ideas for alternatives to sharing online.

Our Responsibility to Our Communities

As Culture Keepers, we are responsible for protecting our communities and traditions. This means being mindful of how we share our traditions and understanding the risks of sharing them online. This page provides more information on our responsibilities to our communities.

While it’s natural to want to share our culture and traditions, we must be mindful of the potential consequences. So, let’s keep our traditions close to home, protect our privacy, and preserve our rich and beautiful culture for generations.

As the Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation, we urge you to consider the implications of using platforms like TikTok. These platforms collect vast amounts of data, potentially infringing on your personal sovereignty and the sacredness of our shared culture. We understand the appeal of these platforms, but we strongly encourage you to delete the TikTok app and protect your data sovereignty. Remember, our traditions and culture are sacred treasures that deserve respect and protection. By taking this step, you are safeguarding your personal information and contributing to preserving our rich and beautiful heritage. Let’s stand together to preserve our culture and protect our data sovereignty.

Potential Dangers of TikTok:

• Cultural Appropriation: TikTok can lead to cultural appropriation. Users may unknowingly or insensitively use elements from different cultures without understanding or respecting them, leading to misrepresentation and stereotyping.
• Data Theft: As with any social media platform, there are concerns about data privacy. TikTok collects a vast amount of user data, including location data, browsing history, and personal information. This data could potentially be misused or fall into the wrong hands.
• Productivity Loss: The addictive nature of TikTok’s short, engaging videos can lead to excessive screen time. This can distract users from more productive activities, leading to procrastination and decreased productivity.
• Misinformation: TikTok can be a breeding ground for misinformation and fake news. This can range from harmless pranks to harmful health advice or political propaganda.
• Inappropriate Content: Despite community guidelines, inappropriate or harmful content can sometimes slip through TikTok’s moderation, potentially exposing young users to mature or disturbing content.
• Cyberbullying: TikTok’s comment and duet features can be used to harass or bully others, leading to potential emotional distress.
• Mental Health Effects: Studies have suggested that excessive use of social media, including TikTok, can have negative effects on mental health, including increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.