What does it mean, and what does it take, to be a resilient, connected, and community-responsive archivist? In such a culturally-interconnected world, what defines the boundaries of the communities that each of us serve in our archival work, and do the communities we serve include those beyond the veil of death? Rooted in Hawaiian cultural practice, this presentation introduces the traditional Hawaiian proverb Na wai e hō'ola nā iwi? (Who will make the bones live?) in connection with archival practice and the role archivists play in not only the stewardship of story but, too, in the enlivening of community voices stilled, silent, or missing.

Through an examination of case-studies, archive theory and the anecdotes of a Native Hawaiian archivist, this presentation explores the Hawaiian concepts of ho'okūpono (standing for right), uwē (to weep, grieve), ho'ōla (bring life to something) and kuleana (privilege and responsibility) through both cultural and archival lenses. Though Hawaiian in origin, these cultural principles of intentional care, demonstrated respect, and tuned resonance have the potential to inform archival practices globally. Further, we explore the definition and role of kahu (stewards and sacred caretakers) in pre-contact Hawai'i and its intersections with tasks and responses of the modern archivist in the preserving, telling, and perpetuation of story.

In this paper Kath Apma Penangke Travis, a Sovereign Arrernte and Boandik woman, Stolen Generation survivor and archive user, confronts the trauma resulting from access or lack thereof to archives. Her work situates the colonial project as a lingering internal conflict that demands attention from those who work with, access and use archives. She explored how family stories are still systematically erased, distorted, and weaponised through ongoing colonial archival practices. There is an urgent need interrogate access to records to dismantle misrepresentations that have historically marginalised not only the voices of her matrilineal line but all First Peoples' voices. In pursuit of archival justice, she asks: How do we challenge and reshape the archive when the very foundation is built on systemic violence? The GLAM sector has a vital role in healing and restoring cultural narratives for First Nations people. How can it help amplify the voices of those who have been marginalised and silenced?

Through her own lived experience, Kath offers valuable insights that integrate trauma, archives and healing together in one place for the first time. She encourages us to reflect on how we can better support these efforts and create a more equitable archive for all that we strive to honour and amplify. It is essential that these important stories are heard.

TBC

The closing plenary panel brings together past and present Presidents of the ASA for a candid and forward-looking conversation.