Sheffield, 2 May, 1997

The day after the British general election and the biggest Labour party landslide in history!

A new government is in place. Just like the election leaflets that have been coming through my letterbox during the last six weeks, this is my chance to convey a message to you about assemblage; the opportunities it can provide for graduates and academics alike to change the way we write and practice archaeology.

Despite still being in its infancy, I feel that assemblage has proved itself beyond doubt to any sceptics we may have had. It has shown that an outlet for the many voices of the archaeological community, though a long time coming, was certainly needed. assemblage provides a freedom of expression that few other journals allow at this time. Yet how can I impart even some of the characteristics of the collective effort that has made up this second issue?

assemblage has no single identity; no one theme; no one way of saying, but therein lies its strength. Changes have been made since the last issue; some cosmetic, others more mechanical, making the journal quicker to load and easier to navigate. From the research papers to the politicised forum essays, the personality of contributor and editor alike is immersed in what you read here. Something of ourselves can be found in these pages.

Elated, hopeful, relieved; however the recent political upheaval has left you feeling, I hope you find something in this issue of assemblage that represents a part of you.

Judith Winters

© Judith Winters 1997

© assemblage 1997