Diversity, Inclusion, and Digital Preservation

Daniel Steinmeier

doi:10.1016/j.patter.2020.100152

Abstract

We have learned from the debate on diversity and inclusion that archiving is not neutral or unbiased even though it is presented in this way. Seen from the perspective of cultural humility, we need to keep learning and challenge power imbalances from both the individual and the organizational level. This article discusses what this means for digital preservation concepts.

Highlights

The current debate, sparked by the movement Black Lives Matter, has put this topic right back into the spotlight
A statement voicing support for diversity could lead to accusations of book burning or wanting to ‘‘change history.’’ Bound up with these sentiments is the fact that working in cultural heritage, for instance within an archive or a library, in society at large is considered to be something beyond reproach, almost like a vocation in a religious sense.[2]
Designated Community The first example of how digital preservation concepts could relate to diversity revolves around the concept of the ‘‘designated community’’: within the open archival information system (OAIS) model, the designated community is an abstraction of all the different user groups a digital repository has

Summary

Introduction

The current debate, sparked by the movement Black Lives Matter, has put this topic right back into the spotlight. Scientists have been continuously working on this topic for decades: shedding light on bias, the ‘‘invisible’’ effect of existing power structures, and ways of giving underrepresented groups a voice within the world of digital heritage as this can be found in the collections of libraries, archives, and museums. The goal is to create a reciprocal relationship with diverse communities so as to provide archives with a channel through which alternative views and ideas may flow.

Results

Conclusion