Melissa Stoner, Candidate for Nominating Committee

"I am a Diné librarian and archivist dedicated to ethical stewardship and the Indigenization of libraries, archives, and metadata systems. My work is driven by a passion for cultural preservation and community empowerment, ensuring that Indigenous perspectives and knowledge systems are respected, represented, and accessible in archives and libraries."

BIOGRAPHICAL STATEMENT

I am a Diné librarian and archivist dedicated to ethical stewardship and the Indigenization of libraries, archives, and metadata systems. As the Native American Studies Librarian at the Ethnic Studies Library at the University of California, Berkeley, I focus on enhancing accessibility, representation, and cultural responsiveness in archival collections. I have been actively involved with the Society of American Archivists (SAA) in various leadership and committee roles. I served as Chair of the Native American Archives Section (NAAS) from 2023 to 2024, following my term as Vice Chair/Chair-Elect from 2022 to 2023, and was a member of the NAAS Steering Committee from 2018 to 2019. I have also contributed to the Archival Repatriation Committee (2022-2024) and the Models of Collaboration Hui (2023-2024).I frequently present on topics related to Indigenous knowledge representation, metadata, equity in archival spaces. My work is driven by a passion for cultural preservation and community empowerment, ensuring that Indigenous perspectives and knowledge systems are respected, represented, and accessible in archives and libraries.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

(Each candidate prepared a diversity statement according to SAA guidelines.)

Definition of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion To me, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mean creating spaces that not only reflect the varied identities and perspectives of all communities but also actively dismantle barriers that have historically marginalized voices, particularly Indigenous voices. Diversity ensures a multiplicity of lived experiences are recognized, equity guarantees fair access to resources and opportunities, and inclusion fosters a sense of belonging where all voices are heard, valued, and respected. How My Personal, Academic, and Professional Experiences Prepare Me to Advocate for DEI As an Indigenous librarian and archival professional, my work has always centered on ethical stewardship, repatriation, and the Indigenization of libraries and metadata systems. My experience in being a part of the Native American Archives Section and the Native American Archival Repatriation Committee have reinforced my commitment to culturally responsive practices. Awareness of Implicit Bias and Commitment to Growth I recognize that implicit biases are shaped by societal structures, and I continually engage in self-reflection and education to challenge and unlearn them. My work with Native American archival materials has deepened my understanding of the ways bias manifests in archival description and access. I actively seek feedback from Indigenous and marginalized communities to ensure that my approaches remain accountable and evolve with emerging perspectives on equity and justice. Integrating DEI into My Work and Mentorship In my role at the Ethnic Studies Library at UC Berkeley, I integrate DEI through ethical digitization projects, inclusive metadata practices, and mentorship initiatives. I serve on advisory boards such as the Social Networks and Archival Context (SNAC) Indigenous advisory board and mentor emerging Indigenous professionals through programs like the Native Emerging Professionals Network with the Association of Tribal Archives, Librarians, and Museums. I model trauma-informed archival practices by prioritizing consent, transparency, and collaboration with communities whose histories have been misrepresented or erased. DEI Strategies for the Position I Am Applying For In this role, I will continue to advance DEI within the Society of American Archivists (SAA) by strengthening Indigenous representation in archival education and policy. Through my work with the Archival Repatriation Committee, I will advocate for systemic change in how institutions handle culturally sensitive materials. I will also promote inclusive professional development opportunities by expanding access to training programs and mentorship for historically underrepresented archivists. By fostering meaningful collaborations and embedding equity into archival frameworks, I aim to create lasting change within SAA and the broader archival profession. DEI Strategies for the SAA Nominating Committee as a member of the Society of American Archivists (SAA) Nominating Committee, I will prioritize the recruitment and nomination of candidates who reflect the diversity of the archival profession and the communities we serve. I will actively seek and support Indigenous, BIPOC, and other historically underrepresented voices within SAA leadership, ensuring that nominations reflect a broad spectrum of perspectives, expertise, and lived experiences. As a member of the SAA Nominating Committee, I will take an active and intentional approach to inspiring members to participate in leadership and engage in the election process. I will do this by fostering an environment where all archivists—particularly those from historically underrepresented backgrounds—see themselves as vital to the profession's leadership and future. I will ensure a slate of candidates that reflects a deep awareness of power, positionality, inclusion, and belonging by prioritizing individuals with demonstrated commitments to DEI, ethical stewardship, and community-centered archival practices. I will seek nominees who not only represent a range of backgrounds and experiences but also understand the ways power operates within archival institutions and professional organizations.

QUESTION POSED BY NOMINATING COMMITTEE

The Nominating Committee plays a crucial role in shaping the elected leadership of SAA. Share your strategies for inspiring members to participate in running for leadership positions and engaging in the election process. How will you ensure a slate of candidates that support an awareness of the role of power, positionality, inclusion, and belonging in our Society? 

CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE

As a member of the SAA Nominating Committee, I will take an active and intentional approach to inspiring members to participate in leadership and engage in the election process. I will do this by fostering an environment where all archivists—particularly those from historically underrepresented backgrounds—see themselves as vital to the profession's leadership and future. I will ensure a slate of candidates that reflects a deep awareness of power, positionality, inclusion, and belonging by prioritizing individuals with demonstrated commitments to DEI, ethical stewardship, and community-centered archival practices. I will seek nominees who not only represent a range of backgrounds and experiences but also understand the ways power operates within archival institutions and professional organizations. Beyond just nominations, I will advocate for ongoing leadership development efforts, such as mentorship programs and leadership training, that prepare and empower archivists to step into leadership roles confidently. By working with existing SAA committees and sections, I will help build a sustainable leadership pipeline that nurtures future leaders who are committed to equity and systemic change. Leadership and governance should not feel distant from the membership. I will encourage active participation by promoting a culture of engagement, where members feel their voices matter in shaping SAA.

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