Historical archaeologists study, interpret and preserve archaeological sites, artifacts and documents from or related to literate societies over the past 600 years for the benefit of present and future peoples. In conducting archaeology, individuals incur certain obligations to the archaeological record, colleagues, employers and the public. These obligations are integral to professionalism. This document presents ethical principles for the practice of historical archaeology. All members of The Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA), and others who actively participate in society-sponsored activities, shall support and follow the ethical principles of the society. All historical archaeologists and those in allied fields are encouraged to adhere to these principles. The SHA is a sponsoring organization of the Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA). SHA members are encouraged to join the RPA and the SHA will use the RPA grievance process for ethics grievances. read more
Sexual Harassment and Discrimination Policy
Sexual harassment is defined as deliberate and unsolicited verbal comments, gestures, or physical contact that is unwelcomed. This includes suggestion that any person’s promotion, employment, compensation or treatment is in any way contingent upon or related to their participation in or rejection of conduct of sexual nature. Sexual harassment also includes unwanted advances, suggestive comments including sexual jokes, or verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Hostility toward or intimidation of any individual may also be sexual harassment. As a society incorporated in the United States, the SHA is bound by U.S. law. Sexual harassment is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. read more
WHEREAS, The Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA) and the Advisory Council on Underwater Archaeology (ACUA), two affiliated organizations, have enjoyed a long-standing and mutually beneficial association for more than 30 years, and; WHEREAS, both organizations wish to reaffirm and strengthen this association in order to advance their mutual commitment to encourage responsible cultural resource stewardship, promote the interests of scientific inquiry, and provide for the dissemination of knowledge, and; WHEREAS, the SHA and ACUA are separately incorporated not-for-profit corporations; NOW, THEREFORE, the SHA and the ACUA hereby mutually agree to the following; read more
As part of its ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, the Society for Historical Archaeology (SHA) commissioned Dr Jennifer A. Stollman of J.A. Stollman Consulting to conduct an audit of SHA diversity practices and understandings. The work (conducted in 2022) included a review of SHA policies, publication data, website, social media, marketing materials and initiatives in general, combined with 10 focus group discussions, 7 small group discussions, and 30 one-on-one interviews with members, leaders, and committee chairs. Additionally, a climate survey was distributed to the SHA membership, garnering 235 responses.
Welcome to sha.org, the official website of the Society for Historical Archaeology
