Protecting Community Intellectual Property

Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions; literary and artistic works; designs; and symbols, names, and images used in commerce. The intellectual property of people, especially intellectuals, creatives, scholars, caregivers, and birth workers of color, is often violated, exploited, or misappropriated.  

Protecting IP involves celebrating, citing, and compensating all collaborators throughout.  When working with community voices and organizations, consider:

How will the ideas, insights, and expertise exchanged between organizations be respected, acknowledged, and protected amidst complex power dynamics?

Understanding key collaborators and building non-disclosure agreements or contracts that outline activities, budgeting, compensation, and other processes are essential to protect intellectual property.

Have additional questions or would like to know more about how your organization can practice protecting & elevating intellectual property? Request technical assistance to see how AMCHP can support.

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