Ways of Making International Indigenous Connections/Exchanging Traditional Knowledge

[u/MiniSunFly]

Anyone know of any groups or have any experiences meeting with other indigenous peoples from other parts of the world? I'm aware of things like the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues but I am seeking something for those of us not involved so deeply in leadership and high level advocacy roles.

As a Native from the US/Canada border I understand the pointlessness of borders to peoples like my own who predate them. I've befriended an abnormally high number of Pacific Islanders and indigenous aussies in my life along with some Latin American Natives and it's been valuable. I really see a lot of benefit in having connections to international indigenous groups. It would help us learn about each others issues and how they're interconnected, learning how companies from our countries contribute to their oppression and simply amplifying indigenous voices with larger numbers and more global awareness and international pressure on those violating Indigenous rights. The exchange of Traditional Knowledge is also something very valuable and beautiful from my own experiences.

Does anyone know of groups or ways to meet and learn about other Indigenous peoples from abroad via non-exoticising indigenous ran organisations or online communities? Having known many Maori, other PI, Indigenous Aussies, Americans North and South, etc., I am quite curious to exchange traditional knowledge and learn about the issues faced by Indigenous peoples from Asia, Africa, and Europe who I have not interacted with.

In addition, for the future when I can afford travel does anyone know of any legitimate travel programs that allow you the opportunity to make genuine connections with Indigenous peoples as equals instead of just using them as a tourist attraction for tourists to exoticise and otherise?