Diversity in Archaeological Employment

Abstract

For this study, I broadly examine representation in archaeology focusing on the experiences of those in Cultural Resource Management (CRM). Current research on equity, diversity, and inclusion in archaeology has largely focused on academia, however I wanted to study the commercial/CRM sector as this is a larger and more accessible workforce. As well, CRM has a reputation of being a heteronormative, male dominated field, and I wanted to look at how this affects marginalized archaeologists. Specifically, a survey was distributed to Canadian CRM companies that focused on the role of gender and sexual orientation in the workplace, and the possible inequity as a result. The purpose of this study was to determine if there is an underrepresentation of members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in CRM archaeology. Initial results of the survey indicate issues with working conditions related to gender and sexual orientation. This paper will present the results of said survey, as well as offer insight on how to make archaeology a more inclusive field based on the issues identified.

Department: Anthropology 

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Katie Biittner