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John Welch is a social archaeologist whose research interests are centered on broad cultural questions about place-based communities and their relationship to biophysical and cultural heritage. He investigates how cultural and historical factors influence the maintenance and governance of places, objects, and traditions. A key aspect of his work is examining indigenous sovereignty, sustainability, and the collaborative efforts required to protect sacred sites, as exemplified by his ongoing advisory role with the White Mountain Apache Tribe in Arizona. He partners with various indigenous communities in British Columbia, including Tla’amin, Katzie, and Stó:lō Nations, focusing on community-driven archaeological practices that help advance local community agendas. His research contributes to intercultural reconciliation and the enhancement of indigenous community capacities through archaeology. Welch has published widely on topics ranging from cultural resource management to indigenous adaptation to climate change and the archaeological evidence of indigenous rights in Canada.
Department of Philosophy