2.3 Indigenous Perspectives on Public Service

Indigenous societies are communities or groups of people who are the original inhabitants of a specific geographic area and have distinct cultural traditions, languages, and social structures. Indigenous societies often maintain a connection to their ancestral lands and ecosystems, and their cultural practices are shaped by this relationship. Examples include the Iroquois Confederacy (also known as the Haudenosaunee) in North America, the Māori in New Zealand, and the Aboriginal peoples in Australia. These societies often have unique governance systems, philosophies, and ways of life that have been passed down through generations.

For many Indigenous societies, public service is rooted in the values of community, interconnectedness, and stewardship. Rather than being seen as a formal job or career path, public service often reflects cultural traditions and responsibilities that prioritize the well-being of the community over individual gain. In these societies, the concept of serving others is not separate from daily life. It is embedded in the roles and practices that sustain the group as a whole.  

Leadership in Indigenous communities often emphasizes consensus-building and collective decision-making. Leaders are seen not as rulers but as caretakers, responsible for maintaining harmony and protecting resources for future generations. For example, many Indigenous cultures have traditions of planning and decision-making that consider the impact on “seven generations” into the future. This long-term perspective highlights a profound commitment to stewardship and sustainability, which are essential components of their view of public service.  

Additionally, public service in Indigenous contexts often includes honoring and preserving cultural traditions. Elders, for example, are respected as keepers of knowledge and play a crucial role in educating younger generations. Sharing traditional stories, teaching skills, and preserving language are all forms of public service that sustain the identity and cohesion of the community.  

By understanding Indigenous perspectives on public service, we gain a broader appreciation for the diverse ways people contribute to the public good. These traditions remind us that public service is not just about formal roles in government or organizations. It can also be a way of life, guided by shared values and a sense of responsibility to others and the earth.

Indigenous philosophies may have played a role in shaping the United States Constitution, particularly through the influence of the Iroquois Confederacy (Haudenosaunee). The Iroquois Confederacy was a political alliance of six Native American nations governed by the Great Law of Peace, which emphasized shared decision making and checks and balances.

Founding leaders such as Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson were familiar with this system and drew inspiration from it. Principles such as federalism—where power is divided between central and regional governments reflect the structure of the Iroquois Confederacy. The Confederacy’s use of deliberation and consensus also influenced the American ideals of debate and cooperation in government.