MA Theses in HRM: Christian Meier, 2020

Indigenous Involvement in the Heritage Resource Management Industry in Southern Ontario: Conversations with Three Nations

Committee

Dr. George Nicholas, Professor, Supervisor
Dr. Gary Warrick, Associate Professor, Indigenous Studies and History Programs, Wilfrid Laurier University, Committee Member
Dr. John Welch, Professor, External Examiner
Dr. Dana Lepofsky, Professor, Chair

Abstract

In southern Ontario, heritage preservation and protection are mandated under provincial provisions with little involvement of Indigenous nations whose heritage represents the majority of archaeological excavations in the heritage resource industry. This study identifies and seeks solutions to Indigenous concerns about heritage control and archaeological mitigation practices, including indigenous positions in the heritage resource management industry. Interviews were conducted with representatives from three Indigenous nations in southern Ontario: (1) the Anishinabek; 2) the Haudenosaunee; and 3) the Huronne-Wendat. Interview analysis was conducted using NVivo analysis software to transcribe and compartmentalize interview data allowing for an in-depth analysis of the semi-structured interviews. Participant’s responses contributed to developing a set of recommendations that include full inclusion in archaeological assessments in southern Ontario through the implementation of Indigenous-oriented approaches based on relationship building between archaeologists and indigenous nations.

Keywords:   Indigenous Involvement; Heritage Resource Management; Archaeological legislation