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Article
Archives for All: Professional Responsibility and Social Justice
The American Archivist
  • Randall C. Jimerson, Western Washington University, Western Washington University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2007
Keywords
  • Professional responsibility,
  • Archivists,
  • Power of archives
Disciplines
Abstract

Archivists should use their power-in determining what records will be preserved for future generations and in interpreting this documentation for researchers-for the benefit of all members of society. By adopting a social conscience for the profession, they can commit themselves to active engagement in the public arena. Archivists can use the power of archives to promote accountability, open government, diversity, and social justice. In doing so, it is essential to distinguish objectivity from neutrality. Advocacy and activism can address social issues without abandoning professional standards of fairness, honesty, detachment, and transparency.

Subjects - Topical (LCSH)
Archivists--Professional ethics; Appraisal of archival materials; Archives--Access control; Archives--Administration
Genre/Form
articles
Type
Text
Language
English
Format
application/pdf
Citation Information
Randall C. Jimerson. "Archives for All: Professional Responsibility and Social Justice" The American Archivist Vol. 70 Iss. 2 (2007) p. 252 - 281
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/randall_jimerson/5/