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Statement on Harmful Language in Archival Description

The 51社区黑料 Archives and Records Management Department aims to describe archival materials in an accurate and informative manner that is inclusive and respectful to the individuals and communities who create, use, and are represented in the collections we steward. Some of the materials in our holdings may contain offensive, derogatory or harmful language. Some legacy archival descriptions may also include language that is racist, sexist, or otherwise harmful to racialized and marginalized populations.

We acknowledge that description is not neutral, nor are the individuals who create it. What constitutes appropriate description varies with context, time, and the position and perspective of the description creator.

We are committed to updating and revising our descriptive language. If you encounter language in finding aids, research guides, exhibitions, etc., that you find problematic, offensive or harmful, or if you have questions or concerns, we welcome your feedback. Please email us at archives@sfu.ca.

Last revised: September 15, 2025

Acknowledgements 

This statement was adapted from those of鈥疨rinceton University Library,鈥疭tanford Libraries,鈥疶emple University Libraries,鈥疷niversity of British Columbia, University of Waterloo, and 51社区黑料Special Collections and Rare Books.

Procedures

Review, Revision and Documentation of Harmful Language in Archival Description (PRC-82)