Canadian colleagues are conducting a study of protocols for anthropological archives. Please respond to Katherine Pettipas, volunteer for the University of Manitoba Archives and Special Collections, at kpettipas@mymts.net if you can assist or provide advice
Project Description:
Professional Anthropologists have donated their research documents to repositories located in university, provincial or national archives. These documents consist of field notes (basic data, the primary set of descriptive observations), field diaries, correspondence,official surveys, manuscripts, photographs, oral histories, etc. Katherine Pettipas, retired Curator of Native Ethnology at The Manitoba Museum and Dr. Shelley Sweeney, Head of the University of Manitoba Archives & Special Collections, are undertaking a study of presently-established protocols related to the acquisition, documentation, and access to these materials. Of particular concern are culturally sensitive materials such as documentation of ceremonies and photographs of individuals that may or may not be accompanied with identification.
Of particular interest are issues related to the moral and ethical responsibilities associated with the functioning as the repository of these materials - to the originating communities from whom the records were generated, to the discipline of anthropology, to future users of these records, and to society at large. In addition to reconsidering public access to materials that have already been accessioned into archival collections over the years, a consultative model for the development of professional guidelines to enable the generation of informed decisions regarding the future acquisition, processing and use of these types of documents is paramount.
This notice is a general appeal to archivists who have such materials in their collections and would be willing to share some of their experiences. Copies of any protocols already in place would be greatly appreciated.
Contact: Katherine Pettipas, kpettipas@mymts.net
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