ABSTRACT
This chapter explores that changing the terms of engagement between archaeologists and communities can create a more sustainable archaeology. The presence of additional interest groups and historical factors like colonialism also impinge upon what can be a very delicate relationship between archaeologists and communities. The type of collateral damage that results from both sensationalist interpretations of ecocide and a lack of meaningful engagement between archaeologists and communities weakens archaeology as a historical science. Additionally, although archaeologists have proclaimed themselves to be stewards of the past, in fact the best stewards are those whose lived existence is proximate to a place of heritage. The triadic relationship in which archaeologists find themselves in a dialogue with both contemporary communities and remains of the past complicates a pursuit of the past in a way that is unique to historical disciplines. There is nothing altruistic about changing the terms of engagement between archaeologists and communities.
