As Holly Norton, the author of this article argues, archaeology and politics are inextricably entwined. I would agree with this, and go further to suggest that the politics involved are not just about archaeology and how political systems promote or suppress this work, but that the practice of archaeology may need to be revisited to hold space for other perspectives on the past, especially those arising from descendant communities.

https://www.theguardian.com/science/2017/apr/10/the-politics-and-power-of-american-archaeology

Sound planning relies on understanding the widest range of variables from the outset. Indigenous language and place names can contain important clues to understanding the landscape, resources and cultural heritage of a planning area, as this interesting G&M article suggests.

http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/how-my-neighbourhood-looks-and-sounds-in-ojibway/article23793202/?service=mobile

Community engagement is a route to building relationships between development proponents and local communities. Positive engagement has long term benefits, not the least of which is bringing Indigenous knowledge of the landscape to the fore.

If your projects includes community engagement, we may be able to help. Please contact us to discuss your project and objectives, and how we can help.

Andrew