Remnants of Jenkinson: observations on settler archival theory in Canadian archival appraisal discourse

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper aims to critically reflect on Jenkinson’s archival appraisal methods and concepts and whether they may still influence practice within the Canadian archival context and, if so, is that influence reconcilable within the evolving archival landscape? The Manual provided a concrete set of guidelines created in a particular time period, within a specific societal context, under specific circumstances that no longer reflect postcolonial realities and decolonization efforts. The 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and the subsequent response work by the Steering Committee on Canada’s Archives indicate that the profession is necessarily evolving with the aim of an inclusive, community-based approach to archival appraisal and practice. A contributing element to these changes to praxis must be a confrontation of all colonial and settler archival theory, such as Jenkinson’s writing, that is often presented as foundational within archival education, and as a mainstay in our professional mythology.