This year’s TAG theme is ‘theory in action’, a broad theme in which we want to be inclusive to everything that makes this conference wonderful: fringe theory that you think needs more attention, bringing untold stories and objects to light, critical reflection on the field, giving voices to diverse communities, and presenting creative crossovers between archaeology and the arts. We are hosted in the School of Arts and Creative Technologies, there is a stage, a cinema, a rehearsal room at our disposal, meaning that we have a great space to bring theory into action in non-traditional ways, and we would like to encourage participants to think about creative ways of presenting papers and hosting sessions.

Theory in action is also about how we as a group, who study, teach, do research in archaeology and heritage, relate to a world that is on fire. From the ruins of Gaza, increasing anti-LGBTQI policies, the increased adoption of archaeology in extreme right-wing politics, climate change, to continuing colonial practices harming indigenous communities and heritage: archaeology needs more thought and more action. We need to find new ways to make our voices heard, louder than before. 

How can we challenge systems of power and oppression and promote care, compassion, and social justice together? How can we celebrate our diverse communities and contributions to interpreting our shared pasts?

 Theory in action pushes us to take this step, to think about action and to perform our theories. We welcome sessions, academic interventions as well as those from development-led archaeology, creative artist responses, and any collaborations with community organizations and activist groups to add to this year’s TAG and we hope to create an inclusive and welcoming environment.

Welcome to York!