How do you honor primary source creators and owners?

2 Understand the context

The second step to honor the creators and owners of primary sources is to understand the historical and cultural context in which they were produced and preserved. This means doing some background research on the time period, the place, the people, and the issues that shaped the source, as well as the biases, assumptions, and limitations that influenced its creation and interpretation. You should also consider the purpose, audience, and genre of the source, and how they affect its meaning and tone. Understanding the context not only helps you analyze and use the source effectively, but also respects the perspectives and experiences of the creators and owners.

3 Seek permission

The third step to honor the creators and owners of primary sources is to seek permission before using them in your research, especially if they are not in the public domain or if they contain sensitive or personal information. You should consult the repository or collection that holds the source, and follow their policies and procedures for accessing, copying, reproducing, or publishing the source. You should also contact the creators or owners of the source, or their representatives, if possible, and ask for their consent and input on how to use the source respectfully and appropriately. Seeking permission not only protects the rights and interests of the creators and owners, but also builds trust and collaboration with them.

4 Acknowledge the impact

The fourth step to honor the creators and owners of primary sources is to acknowledge the impact that your research has on them and their communities, as well as the impact that they have on your research. This means recognizing the benefits and risks of using primary sources, such as enhancing your knowledge, contributing to public discourse, or exposing vulnerabilities, controversies, or injustices. You should also acknowledge the contributions and insights of the creators and owners of the sources, and how they inform, challenge, or enrich your arguments and findings. Acknowledging the impact not only shows gratitude and responsibility for using primary sources, but also reflects on your own positionality and assumptions as a researcher.

5 Share the results

The fifth step to honor the creators and owners of primary sources is to share the results of your research with them and their communities, as well as with other researchers and audiences. This means communicating your research goals, methods, outcomes, and implications in a clear, accessible, and respectful way, and inviting feedback and dialogue. You should also consider how to disseminate your research in a way that is relevant, useful, and ethical for the creators and owners of the sources, such as through publications, presentations, exhibitions, or digital platforms. Sharing the results not only demonstrates your accountability and transparency for using primary sources, but also fosters engagement and exchange with the creators and owners.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?