Content Warning

KMA Photo Collection #4433 – The Kamloops Museum and Archives staff and board at the opening of the current KMA building.

The Kamloops Museum and Archives operates as part of the City of Kamloops, on Tk̓emlúps te Secwe̓pemc territory within the traditional and unceded lands of Secwépemc Nation, Secwepemcúl’ecw.

Learn About Our Commitment To Ethical Stewardship

Content Warning

Questions and comments can be directed to the KMA’s general email address, [email protected] and will be appropriately routed from there.

The Kamloops Museum and Archives (KMA) recognizes that our website and the archival records described within may contain content and language that some may find distressing or triggering. These records reflect the language and attitudes prevalent during the historical periods in which they were created.

This includes images or language that are racist, sexist, ableist, homophobic, and otherwise offensive or discriminatory. Such terms are considered unacceptable today.

The purpose of archives is to preserve historical records for future generations. Since it is not feasible to retain every record ever created, only those deemed “significant” are selected for archival preservation. Often, these significant records were created by those in positions of authority within families, businesses, or government. Consequently, due to the historical development of British Columbia, the voices and experiences of settlers have often been prioritized. At the same time, those of other populations have been overlooked or marginalized.

If you need emotional or crisis support, contact the 24-Hour National Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419 or access a crisis support.

If you encounter any image or content you believe to be inappropriate, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or (250)828-3576

Our Commitment

The KMA is actively working to update outdated and derogatory language in our database. We strive to replace offensive terminology with accurate and respectful language that reflects how individuals and communities describe themselves.

Original archival records are maintained in their historical context and are not altered. This approach ensures the preservation of these records as historical evidence, documenting past events and perspectives, even if they are upsetting. It is crucial to preserve this history to learn from the past and improve future practices.

While the original titles provided by the creators of archival records may be preserved on our website to maintain historical context, we also provide current and appropriate variations in titles when necessary, along with additional contextual information.

Archivists have created the descriptions of archival records on our website over many decades. As acceptable language and archival best practices have evolved, some older language used in these descriptions may no longer be considered appropriate. We are in the process of updating these descriptions. Previously used titles created by archivists may be retained as variations to preserve the historical context of the record’s use and to transparently reflect the Archives’ past practices.

Certain offensive terms with historical significance will not be changed, including:

  • Proper nouns and names, such as the Indian Act
  • Titles of published works

 

Subject headings will remain as they are until we can determine a method of updating them that aligns with archival standards and best practices.

Please get in touch with us at [email protected] or (250) 828-3576 if you have any questions or concerns.

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