Archaeology and First Nations: Examining the attitudes of Ontario archaeologist

Indigenous people around the world have been increasing their involvement in archaeology and as a result the discipline has undergone some significant changes in its theoretical design and methodological practices. "Ownership" of the past, the interpretation of the past and the control of access to the evidence of the past are issues that have increasingly permeated archaeological discourse in recent years. As a result, many First Nations and some archaeologists have cast a shadow of "cultural insensitivity" over all archaeologists. This study is aimed at addressing this accusation in Ontario through an examination of the attitudes of archaeologists regarding First Nations' interests. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data through the mail and is statistically analyzed. Results indicate that archaeologists' attitudes regarding First Nations' interests are contradictory and that a measure of uncertainty and complacency surrounds archaeological ethics pertaining to Aboriginal peoples. This thesis provides a model for Ontario that promotes long-term commitments to the promotion of proactive, cross-cultural, co-operative educational programs developed by archaeologists and First Nations communities.;This Master's thesis is designed as the first stage of a multi-stage research project that would see later stages including the analyses of the attitudes of First Nations regarding archaeologists and archaeological practice. A comparative analysis of these studies would highlight contentious issues that need to be addressed collaboratively.