What does being an archaeologist mean to Indigenous persons?

How and why do some become archaeologists? What has led them down a path to what some in their communities have labeled a colonialist venture? What were are the challenges they have faced, and the motivations that have allowed them to succeed?

Balancing traditional values and Western inquiry

How have they managed to balance traditional values and worldview with Western modes of inquiry? And how are their contributions broadening the scope of archaeology?

The role of Indigenous archaeologists

Indigenous archaeologists have the often awkward role of trying to serve as spokespeople both for their home community and for the scientific community of archaeologists.

The stories in this volume

This volume tells the stories—in their own words—of 37 indigenous archaeologists from six continents, how they became archaeologists, and how their dual role affects their relationships with their community and their professional colleagues.

Sponsored by the World Archaeological Congress