30th November 2011, 09:28 PM
Quote:but why?, they will ask, why did it take this man of vision so long to see that the profession lacked professional status, lacked professional credibility, and professional remuneration? why did he stand so long with his back to the future? (couldn?t resist the bad film reference for marcus) and why would he not see that the great unwashed could not afford to study archaeology if they saddled themselves with an unrepayable loan? archaeology for all - indeed
Good question... very good question. And one does have to ask it. Why also did I join the IfA and end up on Council? Why did I resign from that position? Why did I strive to create the better vision along with the IfA and then decide I could not ? Why am I in the IfA again ( thanks AAI&S) and why am I proud of what BAJR is? Do the IfA see BAJR as a pain in the ass or a potential partner? Why should the IfA see BAJR ( basicly one person with loads of fabulous people here to provide argument and advice from all sides) as a threat or even as worthy of consorting with? What would happen if BAJR bent over again and knelt to the IfA ? Questions I have to ask myself. I can say that I have no problem with the ideals of teh IfA I even like many people in it, some don't like me and have tried many interesting ways of 'clipping my wings' or hope I will 'go away' or even - one fave, try to create a BAJR of their own - that failed due to the real effort that goes into it. The question is valid... I can only say... If BAJR is not part of helping push for professionalism and respect, then everything I have done with the aid of others has been for naught. the guides, the talks, the contractor lists, the university courses, the databases and even the wage system.. one which - lets be honest here is now seen as the minima that people have to deal with.
Today I have once again pushed a curatorial group - to stand up and come out about RO only lists (the only verified list for archaeology they say) and at the same time here about employment practice from an RO that shames any talk of professionalism... legal yes, but indefensible on a moral level. Perhaps I should write it all down, because if people knew half of what happens at BAJR HQ, these discussions would not even be happening.
Make me proud to be an RO... thats all I ask. and I really want somebody to say why.