Collaborating, collecting and representing: queer independent archives and their connections with GLAM institutions in Aotearoa/New Zealand

Abstract

Introduction. Queer independent archives play a significant role in their communities, preserving and providing access to narratives that might otherwise be lost. Queer archives are assumed to be homogenous and thus representative, although some queer communities are not visible. Collaborations with GLAM institutions and universities have become more prevalent as the importance of supporting independent archives is recognised. Nevertheless, for many queer archives and their communities retaining autonomy in such collaborations is vital.  Method. These issues were explored from the perspective of New Zealand’s three queer independent archives through six semi-structured interviews conducted with representatives from each archive. Analysis. The analysis revealed a range of institutional collaborations, reflecting the needs and situation of each archive. Employing different collecting approaches to broaden community representation and record queer life experiences were priorities for the queer archives although with varying degrees of success. Conclusion. This paper highlights some of the challenges faced by queer archives regarding representation and visibility and how institutional collaborations could prove beneficial. Conversely, there may be drawbacks for queer archives, particularly during renegotiations, when power imbalances might become evident.  A regular review might assist GLAMs to more gainfully support queer archives operating in an evolving queer space.