SAA Statement on Restrictions on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Work

CHICAGO—Undertaking diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility work is an essential activity of the archives profession, as archivists document and preserve the record of the broadest possible range of individuals, communities, governance, and organizations, and as we "promote and provide the widest possible accessibility of materials we steward." (See: SAA Core Values Statement and Code of Ethics.)

The Society of American Archivists acknowledges the difficulty archivists and other information workers have had thrust upon them with the passage of federal- and state-level directives, rulings, and legislative acts restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion work within the public and private sectors. SAA further acknowledges the additional and compounded difficulty of such workers who themselves identify as members of diverse communities.

SAA reaffirms the Society's dedication to diversity as one of its core values and emphasizes that archives workers of diverse identities and backgrounds—whether or not they are presently members of SAA—are valued members of our professional community. SAA stands in solidarity with archives workers in impacted states and institutions who continue to ensure that the historical record documents a wide range of perspectives on social, political, and intellectual issues. We encourage all archives workers to educate themselves on these issues and to build communities of support together.

Due to the nature of the legal and regulatory landscape, SAA understands that some members may experience difficulties in participating in portions of the Society's work. We are committed to making space for members to participate in the Society in manners that are safe and accessible based on their institutional and geographic contexts. We further commit to being an agent for advocacy and giving archivists and archives supporters the tools they need to counter these attacks.

The Society's Council will continue to monitor and discuss the impact of anti-DEI legislation, rulings, and directives on archival work and workers. More information will be forthcoming after the November 2025 Council meeting. If you have been impacted by such legislation, rulings, or directives and want to share how SAA can support you, please contact the Council here: president@archivists.org.