Counter-Archaeology: Blending Critical Race Theory and Community-Based Participatory Research

Summary

Exploring connections between critical race theory (CRT) and community-based participatory research (CBPR), the methodology outlined in this paper examines how archaeology can be both transformative and empowering through its involvement in civic engagement, critical pedagogy, and social activism. The paper examines various ways in which CRT can broaden our conception of materiality, accountability, inclusion, and collaboration through an analysis of systemic inequality and its varied effects on archaeological projects. Termed Counter-Archaeology, this paper focuses on how archaeologists are capable of transformative action through their active participation in dismantling white supremacy. Current collaborative work at the Historic Office and Homestead of Dr. James Still in Medford, New Jersey serves as a case study in the preliminary application of this methodology. As a long-term sustainable project, collaborative work at the Still site demonstrates the dynamic terrain of CBPR, public history, heritage site management, and accountability towards various stakeholder concerns and interests.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for Historical Archaeology 2015   •
• Boundaries, Barriers, and Beliefs: Racism and Communities in African Diaspora Archaeology

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Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 350