Gender, Sex and Minority [In]Equality in Archaeology
Channel: Recording Archaeology
Date: 06/04/2017

The imbalance and inequality of gender, sex and minorities dominates the practice and study archaeology. Damning statistics about the ratio of male to female postgraduate researchers versus professoriate continue, and this is not taking into account the virtual lack of minorities in the commercial and academic sector. The reconsideration of gender in archaeology is finally widening as a subject of serious discussion and study. However, that there remains an inexplicable division and imbalance of women to men, featuring a stark lack of minority employment, in the daily practice of archaeology is problematic and symptomatic of the inherent role bias of more senior practitioners and hiring committees. Where are archaeology and her practitioners going wrong?
We seek papers that contribute to lively discussion of the subject of gender, sex and minority inequality in the workplace and academic environment, rather than those studies revolving around the interpretation of gender, sex and minority balances in the archaeological record. Without a fair and equitable system of representation, promotion and collaboration that involves all archaeologists, we cannot hope to untangle our shared past in a holistic and considerate way, befitting the bridge between science and the humanities.
This session, using the Pecha Kucha presentation method, is intended to provide a short and snappy set of visual aids and presentations revolving around the theme of imbalance and inequality, and the means through which we may create a more equal footing for everybody involved. In short, it is time to crash through the glass ceiling and not pull the ladder up behind us. Pecha Kucha presentations feature the use of 20-slides, shown and narrated for a maximum of 20-seconds each. The organisers have chosen this model to provide a harsh illustration of the short and interrupted nature of professionals when they are not white, cis-gendered men. Although we strongly encourage the submission of abstracts by the underrepresented demographics in archaeology, we will not discriminate against any applicants on the basis of their gender, sex or minority status.
The Pecha Kucha presentations will be followed by a round table discussion of the themes apparent, and the means through which archaeology can move forward in an equal and more balanced fashion. Our aim is the production of a published proceedings based on the presentations and collaborations resulting from this session.
This session includes the following Pecha Kucha presentations and an open round table discussion in the end.

Emily Stammitti , Independent researcher