Indigenous knowledge and social work: Intercultural approaches for sustainable community development

Abstract

Introduction: The research explores the link between Indigenous knowledge and social work, establishing an intercultural approach to sustainable community development. It acknowledges that traditional knowledge is minimized by social work when it operates under a colonial logic. Therefore, the need for a decolonial change that promotes the epistemological validity of cognitive systems from their places of origin is reaffirmed. Methodology: This article conducts a narrative documentary review focused on the critical analysis of narratives. Results: The study demonstrates that authentic sustainability prevails thanks to Indigenous principles such as reciprocity, care for the territory, and collective decision-making. Critical interculturality is understood as a methodology that facilitates a horizontal dialogue which renews both the community and professional practice. Conclusions: Therefore, social work is reconstructed, facilitating autonomous community processes. This relationship reveals accessible opportunities to consolidate knowledge from a foundation of balance and self-determination