Reanimating data: Working with archives to revitalise young sexualities, past and present

Abstract

Purpose: In this paper, we outline a method for working with the long past materials of social research to forge a method for engaging and co-producing knowledge with new audiences in the present. Findings: Situated in a conceptual landscape of queer theory and feminist archive activism, through this paper we share what happened when a 30-year-old landmark feminist research project (the Women, Risk & AIDS Project) was saved, archived and shared with new generations of young women and youth workers. We outline four key methods that characterise the approach taken: collaging, re-asking, re-voicing and re-collecting. The method is offered as both a research method for co-producing knowledge about sexuality, sexual health and perceptions of social change as well as a pedagogical practice that can be taken up by and with young people in their own projects of enquiry. Conclusions: We encourage a new set of research and educational practices that start with, and creatively animate, qualitative research data.