17.3 Archaeology and Indigenous Rights
3 min read•july 22, 2024
Archaeology's colonial roots have long impacted indigenous communities. From artifact removal to land claim challenges, the field has often marginalized indigenous voices and knowledge. This complex history highlights the need for ethical practices in archaeological research.
Today, archaeologists are developing collaborative strategies to address these issues. By partnering with indigenous communities, respecting cultural protocols, and prioritizing community needs, the field is working towards more ethical and inclusive practices in studying the past.
Archaeology's Relationship with Indigenous Communities
Historical context of archaeology-indigenous relations
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- Colonial roots of archaeology emerged during European colonialism and often served to justify colonial ideologies and policies
- Disregard for indigenous rights and knowledge as indigenous peoples were seen as subjects of study rather than active participants, and their traditional knowledge and oral histories were often dismissed or undervalued
- Removal and appropriation of cultural artifacts from indigenous lands without consent and displayed in museums far from their communities of origin (, )
- Marginalization of indigenous voices as their perspectives were rarely included in archaeological interpretations and there were limited opportunities for indigenous people to enter the field
Archaeology's impact on indigenous rights
- Challenging indigenous land claims by using archaeological evidence to contest indigenous land rights and prioritizing "scientific" interpretations over traditional knowledge
- Reinforcing colonial narratives that emphasize narratives of cultural extinction or assimilation and minimize evidence of indigenous resistance and resilience
- Appropriating indigenous by using indigenous cultural sites and artifacts for tourism or commercial gain (, ) and failing to respect indigenous cultural protocols and restrictions
- Supporting indigenous self-determination through collaborating with indigenous communities to address their research priorities and recognizing indigenous ownership and control over cultural heritage
Strategies for Collaborative and Ethical Practice
Collaborative archaeological practices
- and partnership that engages indigenous communities throughout the research process and establishes formal agreements outlining roles, responsibilities, and benefits
- over research design and interpretation by prioritizing research questions and methodologies that align with community needs and incorporating indigenous knowledge and perspectives into archaeological interpretations
- Capacity building and training that provides opportunities for indigenous community members to develop archaeological skills and supports the development of indigenous-led heritage management programs
- Respectful treatment of ancestral remains and sacred sites by following indigenous protocols for the handling and repatriation of human remains and ensuring that sacred sites are protected and access is controlled by indigenous communities
Ethics of research on indigenous sites
- Informed consent and community approval obtained from indigenous communities before conducting research, respecting the right of communities to refuse or withdraw consent
- Intellectual property rights that recognize indigenous ownership over traditional knowledge and cultural expressions and ensure that indigenous communities benefit from any commercial applications of research findings
- Responsible dissemination of research results through consulting with indigenous communities before publishing or presenting research findings and ensuring that indigenous perspectives are accurately represented in research outputs
- Long-term relationships and reciprocity built through lasting partnerships that extend beyond individual research projects and provide tangible benefits to indigenous communities, such as educational resources or infrastructure improvements (community centers, language programs)
Key Terms to Review (18)
American Indian Archaeological Institute: The American Indian Archaeological Institute is an organization dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Native American heritage through archaeological research and education. It focuses on collaborative efforts between archaeologists and Indigenous communities, aiming to ensure that the rights and perspectives of Native peoples are respected in archaeological practices.
Benin Bronzes: The Benin Bronzes are a group of plaques and sculptures that adorned the Royal Palace of Benin in what is now Nigeria, created by the Edo people in the 16th century. These intricate artworks reflect the wealth, power, and artistic achievement of the Benin Kingdom, but they also symbolize the contentious issues surrounding cultural heritage, colonialism, and the rightful ownership of cultural property.
Chaco Canyon: Chaco Canyon is a significant archaeological site located in northwestern New Mexico, known for its monumental architecture and complex social organization of the Ancestral Puebloans, who inhabited the area from AD 900 to 1150. It serves as a critical example of early urban planning and sophisticated astronomical alignments in ancient Native American cultures, showcasing the evolution of archaeological methods used to study such sites and the ongoing discussions about Indigenous rights in archaeology.
Colonial legacy: Colonial legacy refers to the lasting impacts and influences of colonialism on societies, cultures, and economies that were once under colonial rule. These legacies can manifest in various forms, including social structures, legal systems, cultural practices, and economic disparities that persist long after the end of formal colonial governance. This term connects deeply with issues surrounding cultural property, repatriation, and the rights of Indigenous peoples.
Consultation: Consultation refers to the process of seeking advice or input from stakeholders, particularly indigenous communities and local populations, in matters concerning archaeological research and heritage management. This practice emphasizes the importance of engaging with those who have a vested interest in the cultural heritage being studied or preserved, ensuring that their perspectives and rights are respected and considered in decision-making processes.
Crown Land Act: The Crown Land Act refers to legislation that governs the use and management of land owned by the state or crown, primarily in Canada. This act plays a critical role in the context of Indigenous rights by regulating land allocation, usage, and claims, often impacting Indigenous communities and their historical land rights. It is essential for understanding the relationship between government policies and Indigenous peoples' rights to land and heritage.
Cultural Heritage: Cultural heritage refers to the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes inherited from past generations, which shapes the identity and values of communities. This concept includes monuments, sites, traditions, languages, and practices that are significant to a group, linking them to their history and cultural identity. It plays a crucial role in the preservation and understanding of human civilization.
Decolonization: Decolonization is the process through which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, leading to the establishment of sovereign nations. This movement often involves reclaiming cultural identity, political autonomy, and control over land and resources that were historically dominated by foreign entities. Decolonization plays a critical role in reshaping relationships between indigenous peoples and archaeological practices, highlighting the importance of indigenous rights and perspectives in understanding historical narratives.
Elgin Marbles: The Elgin Marbles are a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures that were originally part of the Parthenon and other buildings on the Acropolis of Athens. These artworks were brought to England by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century, sparking ongoing debates about cultural heritage and ownership, particularly in the context of archaeology and indigenous rights.
Indigenous archaeology collective: An indigenous archaeology collective refers to a group of Indigenous peoples and archaeologists who work collaboratively to reclaim, interpret, and manage archaeological sites and cultural heritage in a way that respects Indigenous knowledge and rights. This collective emphasizes the importance of self-determination and cultural sovereignty, ensuring that Indigenous voices are central in the archaeological process.
Indigenous control: Indigenous control refers to the governance and management of land, resources, and cultural heritage by Indigenous peoples, ensuring their rights and interests are prioritized in decision-making processes. This concept emphasizes the importance of self-determination and sovereignty for Indigenous communities, allowing them to assert authority over their ancestral territories and cultural practices while advocating for their interests in various contexts, including archaeological research.
Machu Picchu: Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, renowned for its archaeological significance and stunning architectural feats. This ancient site exemplifies Inca civilization, showcasing advanced engineering, terracing, and urban planning. It also serves as a focal point for discussions about preservation, cultural heritage, and the rights of indigenous peoples in the context of archaeological research and tourism.
NAGPRA: NAGPRA, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, is a U.S. federal law enacted in 1990 that provides a process for museums and federal agencies to return certain Native American cultural items to their respective tribes. This law reflects a significant shift toward recognizing Indigenous rights and cultural heritage, especially in the context of repatriation of human remains and sacred objects. It aims to address historical injustices by allowing Native American tribes to reclaim items taken without consent, fostering a sense of cultural dignity and identity.
Oral history: Oral history is the practice of collecting and preserving spoken accounts of past events and experiences, often shared through storytelling. This method not only serves to document personal narratives but also highlights the cultural significance and perspectives of communities, especially marginalized or Indigenous groups, in understanding their histories.
Stewardship: Stewardship refers to the responsible management and care of cultural heritage, archaeological sites, and resources, ensuring their preservation for future generations. This concept is deeply connected to ethical considerations, emphasizing the importance of protecting these sites while respecting the rights and perspectives of local communities and indigenous peoples involved in their history and heritage.
Stonehenge: Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, consisting of a circular arrangement of large standing stones. It has long been a subject of intrigue due to its complex construction, astronomical alignments, and potential ritual significance, linking it to the evolution of archaeological methods, early treasure hunting practices, ancient rituals and beliefs, and contemporary discussions surrounding indigenous rights.
Traditional ecological knowledge: Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) refers to the understanding and insights acquired by Indigenous peoples over generations regarding their local ecosystems. This knowledge encompasses a holistic perspective that integrates cultural practices, spiritual beliefs, and a deep connection to the land, which informs sustainable resource management and conservation strategies.
Uluru: Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a massive sandstone monolith located in the heart of the Northern Territory of Australia. It holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for the Indigenous Anangu people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. The site represents a connection between land, identity, and cultural heritage, highlighting the ongoing struggle for Indigenous rights and recognition in Australia.