Charge: Task Force on Native American Protocols Review (October 2007)

Goal

Obtain widespread public comment on “Protocols for Native American Archival Materials” (a draft document developed by a group of Native American and non-Native American archivists, librarians, museum curators, historians, and anthropologists who gathered for a conference at Northern Arizona University in April 2006) and prepare for the Council’s consideration a summary of public comments.  The Council will also share this with the Native American Archives Roundtable.  The “Protocols” were presented to the SAA Council for endorsement at its August 28, 2007, meeting.

Members

Frank Boles, Chair
David George-Shongo, Jr.
Christine Weideman

Tasks

1. As soon as possible, but not later than December 1, 2007, the Task Force will contact all SAA unit leaders and ask them to comment on, and/or circulate to their unit members for comment, “Protocols for Native American Archival Materials.”  Deadline for comments from unit leaders and/or members:  December 17, 2007.
2. As soon as possible, but not later than December 7, 2007, the Task Force will post the draft “Protocols” document to the SAA website with an invitation to all SAA members to comment on the document.  Deadline for comments:  December 17, 2007.
3. The Task Force will review and summarize (without recommendations for action) the comments received by the deadline and will prepare a summary report for the Council’s consideration at its winter 2008 meeting.  The report will include recommendations regarding the next steps that the Council might take in considering the possible endorsement of the Protocols.  The report will be posted to the SAA website two weeks prior to the Council meeting.  Deadline for submission of report:  January 8, 2008.

At its winter 2008 meeting the Council will discuss the Task Force summary report and consider what actions, if any, to take.