The Importance of Zuni Perspectives and Presence in Archaeological Research and Landscape Studies in the American Southwest

Summary

This is an abstract from the "Tribal Engagement Best Practices: Lessons from Arizona and New Mexico" session, at the 90th annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology.

The Zuni ancestral homeland extends across the American Southwest, into Mesoamerica, and beyond. For generations, Ashiwi, or Zuni ancestors, became acquainted with the land and its elements, relying on Mother Earth to provide them with food, shelter, and the tools needed to survive, both physically and spiritually. The Creator guided the Ashiwi, and they reciprocated his generosity and trust in humanity with their ceremonies and commitment to Earth stewardship. Zuni people today are the heirs of their ancestor's knowledge, hard work, and faith, and they draw on lessons from the past to preserve and maintain their culture and heritage. Because of this, Zuni people hold unique perspectives about archaeological sites and materials, which are the memory pieces of their past, and about the landscapes and landforms where their ancestors once lived. Thus, Zuni participation in archaeological research and cultural resource management is not only essential in painting a more complete and meaningful picture of history and land use in the Zuni ancestral homeland, it is also a way for generations of Ashiwi people that came before to be honored and acknowledged.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 90th Annual Meeting, Denver, CO (2025)   •
• Tribal Engagement Best Practices: Lessons from Arizona and New Mexico

Keywords

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 53167