I. PURPOSE OF THE COLLECTION
To develop an in-depth research collection of primary source materials which are cataloged and accessible for study, that documents the cultural, political, and social experiences of the state's major ethnic groups. The California Ethnic and Multicultural Archives (CEMA) was established to enable and enhance research efforts to study the ethnic and racial diversity of the state and nation and attendant demographic social issues; support study and research in many disciplines; enrich the academic work of the ethnic studies departments in the University of California, and insure, by preserving these materials, that future generations have access to the important historical documents.
II. SCOPE OF COVERAGE
A. Ethnic Groups Represented
Collections will focus upon the following four groups: African Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, and Chicanos/Latinos.
B. Geographic Coverage
Collections will emphasize individuals, groups, and organizations either of California origin, or whose activities have principally been in California, or whose major impact will affect California.
C. Chronological Scope
Acquisitions from any time period may be considered.
D. Language
Acquisitions in any language may be considered.
E. Formats
Collections may be in any format. These may include microforms or other media, such as computer disks or tapes, videos, and audio tapes. Acquisitions may include posters, serigraphs, pictures, photographs, and other visual materials, along with any related documents and ephemera such as community newsletters and flyers. Documents may include organizational records--which illuminate the history of an institution, such as reports, minutes of meetings, memoranda, etc. or personal correspondence, diaries, speeches, pre-publication manuscripts, and memorabilia as well as any other printed items.
F. Exclusions
Excluded will be original works of art such as paintings or monotypes in oil or any other media as well as personal or corporate artifacts or realia.
G. Cooperative Collection Development Efforts
CEMA will seek to work with other institutions involved in similar efforts, as appropriate.
