The Society for American Archaeology, boasting 7,000 members, recently held its annual conference in Denver, attended by over 1,000 members. However, a notable absence of federal archaeologists marked the event, stemming from abrupt travel funding cuts in several agencies. Many believe the reduction relates to conference themes surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.), leading to canceled department meetings and a drastically altered program. One attendee referred to the changes as a “two-page blood bath of federal disengagement.”
The outlook for American archaeology is bleak as government support for research, preservation, and museums has been significantly reduced. Numerous archaeologists have lost their jobs, while federal agencies in charge of field and collections work have been diminished, resulting in the cancellation of projects across academic, private, and government sectors.
Christopher D. Dore, president of the archaeology society, lamented the extensive losses in potential opportunities and resources. He noted the irony of sacrificing historical endeavors just as the nation nears the 250th anniversary of Independence. Dr. Dore expressed concern that the cutting back of staff could lead to insufficient supervision of federal lands, which are facing threats such as looting, erosion, and even damage from permitted uses like cattle grazing. “Archaeological resources are not renewable,” he cautioned. “Once destroyed, sites and the information they hold are gone forever.”
