The Archaeological Process in British Columbia: Help or Hindrance to First Nations?

Conference Paper

The Archaeological Process in British Columbia: Help or Hindrance to First Nations?

Beth BEDARD

Abstract

In the last decade, Native communities have expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of native cultural heritage and archaeology in BC. In response, the Archaeology Branch, university researchers and consultants have taken steps to accommodate these concerns. This paper will examine some of the concerns as well as the measures taken by archaeologists and assess whether they align with native needs and perceptions. Based on this examination, some predictions for professional archaeology and First Nations are made.