"When Diversity Becomes a Dirty Word: Archiving in an Era of Cultural Conflict"

Presentation given at the Society of American Archivists' 2025 annual meeting. Session description: "For archivists in institutions facing pressure to eliminate DEI initiatives, balancing professional ethics with expectations from administrators or policymakers is like being stuck between a rock and a hard place. Three archivists at a state-funded university will share how they are maintaining a welcoming space, addressing archival silences with collection development, and approaching outreach amid hostility towards diversity, equity, and inclusion. They will share specific ways of gathering relevant physical and born-digital materials, as well as their efforts to preserve trust with stakeholders and donors. After a brief presentation, attendees will be invited to join the conversation."