Archaeologists should share what they learn with the many publics interested in or affected by archaeology. These include but are not limited to students and teachers; Indigenous and
descendant groups who find in the archaeological record important aspects of their heritage; lawmakers and government officials; museums and heritage organizations; reporters, journalists, and others involved in the media; avocational archaeologists and public-focused archaeological organizations; and the general public. Public and community engagement includes all parties that have an impact on, and are impacted by, an archaeological resource and its interpretation. Archaeologists (1) explain what an archaeologist does in culturally appropriate ways; (2) explain the importance of understanding, preserving, protecting, and interpreting the past for the present and future; and (3) listen to and incorporate the knowledge and concerns of impacted communities. At times, scientific, administrative, and/or local and descendant community objectives may conflict. In these situations, an archaeologist should conduct open communication and dialogue in a collaborative spirit with the goal of reaching a mutually agreeable solution.