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[Post-Colonial Computing]

[Developing Digital Infrastructure]

In vast rural landscapes, broadband Internet development mirrors the growth of a squash plant—unpredictable and organic. Essential for bridging the digital divide in tribal areas, this expansion resembles the plant’s sprawling vines, seeking support and adapting to the environment.1 Like tending a garden, this endeavor requires not just physical resources but also a profound computational insight to navigate the complexities of diverse terrains.

The slow maturation of this “digital vineyard” reflects the process of connecting remote Indigenous communities. Each step forward is a mix of progress and challenge, with success varying from one area to another.2 These efforts are resource-intensive, drawing not only on physical but also on intellectual capital to bridge gaps in connectivity.

This highlights a need to view spaces not just as information nodes but as living systems that convey stories and possibilities. These environments, rich with history and potential, guide our understanding of how technology shapes and is shaped by the spaces we inhabit.3

At its core, postcolonial computing advocates for recognizing the cultural specificity of design. It shifts the focus from problem-solving to embracing design’s inherent cultural ties, broadening the conversation about what constitutes good design across different contexts.4

The image is an artistic representation of digital data visualization, reminiscent of a city skyline. Vertical bars in varying heights and colors, encoded with binary digits (0s and 1s), mimic the appearance of skyscrapers. The hues transition smoothly from warm oranges and yellows at the bottom to cooler blues and teals towards the top, suggesting a skyline at sunset or sunrise. The binary numbers give the impression of windows or structural patterns on buildings. This image abstractly symbolizes the intersection of urban development and the digital information age. Image made with generative AI.

[Code Modifcations]

Indigenous agriculture, with its nuanced approach to cultivating corn, offers profound insights into the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature. This "code of corn" embodies an intricate understanding of the land, intertwining crops within the ecosystem to thrive in a variety of environments. Unlike contemporary agricultural methods that often seek to impose a uniform approach, indigenous practices honor the diversity of the natural world, adapting to the land's inherent characteristics without necessitating its alteration.5 This philosophy not only preserves ecological diversity but also underscores a deep respect for nature, showcasing a stark contrast to the one-size-fits-all mentality prevalent in modern agriculture.

As we transition into a post-colonial era, the fusion of these ancient agricultural principles with modern technologies marks a pivotal moment for connectivity, especially within indigenous and rural communities. This merging aims to create digital spaces that resonate with tribal cultures, elevating their wisdom and voices on a global platform.6 By integrating the code of corn—a symbol of environmental respect and adaptability—with contemporary digital frameworks, we're crafting a future where technology harmoniously blends with the rich tapestry of human experiences. This endeavor seeks to bridge the ancient with the digital, fostering a world that values connectivity and understanding across diverse cultural landscapes.

The practice of modifying plants, such as corn, to suit various terrains predates the modern understanding of genetic "coding" and stands in stark opposition to the uniformity of modern agricultural practices. This deep ecological knowledge extends beyond mere farming, influencing all facets of life and illustrating a philosophy that emphasizes unity and a profound connection to the earth. Such indigenous practices challenge the core of modern computing and the Internet, which often overlook the importance of local contexts and community in favor of universality and individualism. Embracing indigenous methods and philosophies in computing opens new avenues for technology development that respects and enhances cultural and environmental integrity, offering a model for a more inclusive and sustainable technological future.

The image displays a close-up of a single ear of corn with a multitude of kernels in shades of yellow, gold, purple, and white, creating a mosaic of colors. The corn ear is partially encased in its natural husk, which has a deep purple hue, adding a striking contrast to the vibrant kernels. Silky tassels peek out from the top, and the background hints at a cornfield under a clear sky.
How can we ensure that our digital expansions foster connectivity without erasing the cultural and spiritual significance of the land?

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