OUR APPROACH AND PHILOSOPHY
CRM is more than just archaeology. CRM must consider the intangible aspects of culture.
Traditionally, CRM examines cultural heritage in all its diverse forms. It examines the depth and meaning of cultural heritage resources, and analyzes how diverse approaches to the conservation, access to and management of cultural heritage continue to evolve in response to social, economic, cultural and environmental needs.
We believe that cultural resource management is more than just archaeology. True cultural resource management is about people–past and present. Our holistic approach enhances traditional CRM–we specialize in managing and honouring the intangible aspects of culture.
Crossroads CRM’s holistic approach:
- Community-based, community-driven, and collaborative
- Identifies how all aspects are related to understand the bigger picture
- Builds capacity and makes a difference
- Considers intangible and abstract aspects of diverse worldviews
- Not just archaeology
Crossroads CRM works with our partners to go beyond the usual examination of cultural heritage.
Crossroads Cultural Resource Management evolved out of the need to bridge the gap between First Nations and non-indigenous motivations, interpretations and management. Since our inception, we have successfully adapted existing processes to suit the needs of indigenous groups, while maintaining efficiency and development objectives for industry and government.
We understand and respect different worldviews and perspectives, and provide practical solutions for mutual understanding. We realize that there is a serious need for change in how cultural resource management business is conducted. There is a need for an independent and objective organization that is experienced with the full spectrum of cultural resource management and able to provide effective solutions that consider all cultural values.
CORE VALUES
Relationships
Crossroads CRM is a strong believer in meaningful and engaging relationships with colleagues, clients, and communities. Our integrity and transparency inspire trust from those with whom we work.
Respect
We take time to listen and appreciate what others have to say, and work in a climate of cooperation. We help our partners and communities build long lasting skills, and learn from each others experiences.
Professionalism
We approach every assignment with a high level of professionalism. Our professionalism is driven by passion – we are continuously moving forward, innovating, and improving.
Cross-cultural understanding
We achieve common ground by understanding multiple perspectives and how people from different cultures speak, communicate and perceive the world around them.
LIVING ANTHROPOLOGY
Anthropology is the study of what makes us human. Anthropologists take a broad approach to understanding the many different aspects of the human experience. Anthropology is a practice and a way of thinking and living.
Applied anthropologists work to solve real world problems by using anthropological methods and ideas. For example, they may work in local communities helping to solve problems related to health, education or the environment. They might also work for museums or provincial parks helping to interpret history. They might work for governments or for non-profit organizations. Others may work for businesses, to learn more about how people use products or technology in their daily lives.
While anthropologists devote much of their attention to what human groups share across time and space, they also study how these groups are different. Just as there is diversity in the ways people physically adapt to their environment, build and organize societies, and communicate, there are also many ways to do anthropology. Unique approaches to anthropology developed in many countries around the world.
At Crossroads CRM, we think, work and live anthropologically.
CROSSROADS ABROAD
The practice of anthropology is universal.
We are driven by curiosity. Given our roots in ethnographic and cultural studies, we are always on the lookout for intellectually rewarding and insightful work and are eager to support interesting internationally-based projects.
Crossroads CRM team members have experience working on international projects including:
Costa Rica
Community Development Project – Lomas Barbudal Biological Reserve: helped build a new research centre and facilitated health and healing workshops for local communities.
Australia
Greening Australia – Tasmanian Midlands Restoration Project: Provided advice on cultural conservation and collaboration initiatives to complement the conservation and restoration project of Midlands landscapes.
Aotearoa/New Zealand
World Indigenous Peoples Conference on Education/Cultural Exchange: Carla Lewis of CCRM worked for many years on an Aboriginal Health Sciences curriculum development project at the University of Northern BC and travelled with Wet’suwet’en Elder and Knowledge Holder, Rita George to present on the program and participate in a cultural exchange with the Maori of Aotearoa.
Guatemala
International Field Initiatives and Forensic Training: a project that provided participants with a holistic and hands on approach to working with individuals affected by human rights violations, as well as the process of examination, recovery and analysis of mass graves, and with transitional justice.
Traditional Medicines Project – Maya Achi community: conducted community based research and developed curriculum for a rural school to ensure local, culturally relevant content was incorporated into the learning outcomes.