The Context of Indigenous Participation in Archaeology in Mexico

Abstract

This chapter discusses the private sphere in heritage conservation and the Indigenous communities having a place in the protection, use, and conservation of Mexico’s patrimonial heritage. The authors explore the definition of the term “Indigenous,” the identification, recognition, and treatment of the Indigenous, as well as the Indigenous relationship with Mexico’s constitution. The chapter examines the corresponding federal law of heritage that governs archaeology and its relationship with Indigenous people and their social participation. It discusses in detail the ownership of national assets and what is understood to be archaeological patrimony. Education and literacy among the Indigenous population are brought up in the context of social and economic disparities among the general population. The chapter provides a reference for academia and legislators to consider opening their doors wider for a more inclusive and balanced social participation, with an emphasis on the inclusion of Indigenous participation in archaeology. An important secondary goal is to allow the economy to grow within Mexico’s archaeological, anthropological, and related fields.