Indigenous archaeology
Find resources about engaging Indigenous peoples during the archaeological process.
Introduction
In Ontario, over 80% of all archaeological sites were inhabited by Indigenous peoples. This includes villages, longhouses, campsites, and portage areas.
Artifacts that have been uncovered include fragments of pottery sherds, arrow and spear points, and everyday materials used by First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.
Some of these sites contain sacred bundles, funerary objects and human remains, all of which must be treated with utmost respect and dignity.
Resources
Standards and Guidelines for Consultant Archaeologists
The Standards and Guidelines for Consultant Archaeologists require archaeologists to engage Indigenous communities at certain points in the archaeological assessment process.
While the Standards and Guidelines lay out minimum requirements, we strongly encourage archaeologists to engage Indigenous communities at every stage of the archaeological assessment process.
Bulletin: Engaging Aboriginal Communities in Archaeology
The draft technical bulletin Engaging Aboriginal Communities in Archaeology helps consultant archaeologists plan engagement.
It encourages best practices, such as including representatives from interested communities in archaeological work.