V International Week of Archaeology

Students MAE-USP

 

          Continuing the meetings promoted since 2007, the V International Week of Archaeology, the students MAE-USP would like to invite all colleagues to discuss current themes in archaeology and promote debates about theory, method, and public policies. The event started as a student meeting for the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology of the University of São Paulo (MAE-USP) community and aimed to promote the interaction between the students and researchers. The event grew and started to internationalise, expanding the number of lectures and registrations, and also supporting students from different institutions.

 

          This year’s issue, which will happen from May 8th to the 12th in the University of São Paulo, will be guided by new perspectives of Archaeology in the XXI century - theoretical unfolding, the engagement in public life and technical and methodological innovations. Considering the (un)paths of Archaeology and what is usually called “archaeological heritage”, we bring forth the need to renovate the agents of archaeological practice (professionals and partners), the laws and the management of material and immaterial cultural resources. Archaeology, now more than ever, is a discipline that focuses on the present.

 

         Our famous ostrich is this time represented in a rock painting, to draw the attention to the threats to archaeological heritage, and therefore, the memories and identities it representes. Archaeological sites, considered as "Union" heritage by the Brazilian state, are protected by law, although this is not true for thousands of sites throughout the national territory that are threatened by unorganized territorial growth, private enterprises and looting. What we are seeing in the last years is the State and its partners in the private sector, breaking its own laws and premises of heritage preservation, dignity and human rights. With this rock art we pay homage to one of the most well-known archaeological sites in Brazil, that even with its international recognition by the UNESCO, has been through huge difficulties for its preservation and public visitation: the Serra da Capivara National Park.

 

          As in all past issues, we are trying to promote a meeting where the main roles are dedicated for the students, both post-graduates and undergraduates. In a democratic and open meeting the sole purpose is to hear and be heard! To all students, researchers, professors and other professionals feel invited to take part in another Archaeology Week!

          Welcome!