“We Want Our Voices Back”

Abstract

The term “repatriation” can have different meanings for libraries, museums, and archives. This chapter deals with the important work of “knowledge repatriation” by returning copies of sound recordings to the places from which they originated and explores ethical issues arising from the process. Various repatriation initiatives by Australian institutions as well as specific research projects are explored. Some dilemmas arising for collections management staff due to outdated protocols and procedures for access and copying are shown within the context of the work of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies along with some actions being taken to address those difficulties. Examples are given of the special use of sound recordings within the legal context of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land claims.