The issue of colonialism in museums has been debated for decades, yet the challenges remain unresolved. Many institutions struggle with their colonial legacies, often failing to reconcile with the past and create a more equitable future. Addressing these issues requires critical reflection and decisive action, guided by voices like feminist scholars and activist Bell Hooks.

Imagining Possibilities: Bell Hooks’ Vision

In her book Art on My Mind, Bell Hooks wrote, “The function of art is to do more than tell it like it is—it’s to imitate what is possible.” This profound sentiment extends beyond art to the very purpose of museums. As cultural institutions, museums hold the power to reflect societal realities and envision a more just and equitable future. However, achieving this vision demands a break from colonial practices and a commitment to transformative change.

Engaging with Communities

Engaging with the communities museums aim to serve is a critical step in addressing colonial legacies. This involves actively involving community members in curating and interpreting exhibits, fostering trust, and building meaningful relationships. Such engagement requires museums to:

  • Acknowledge historical and ongoing harm caused by colonial practices.
  • Collaborate with communities to repair the damage and promote healing.
  • Incorporate diverse narratives and voices into exhibitions and programs.

By doing so, museums can begin to dismantle the barriers that have historically excluded marginalized groups and create spaces where all voices are valued.

Diversifying Museum Leadership and Staff

Diversity in leadership and staffing is another essential step toward equity. Museums must ensure that those shaping exhibits and policies represent various perspectives and experiences. Actions to achieve this include:

  • We hire staff from underrepresented communities to bring diverse viewpoints to decision-making processes.
  • I am creating mentorship and pipeline programs to support young people from marginalized backgrounds in pursuing museum careers.
  • It is implementing inclusive workplace practices that promote equity and belonging.

By reflecting the diversity of their communities within their staff, museums can better represent and serve the public.

Building an Equitable Future

To genuinely shake off their colonial legacy, museums must commit to sustained efforts that challenge entrenched systems of exclusion and oppression. As Bell Hooks reminded us, “The function of art is to do more than tell it like it is – it’s to imitate what is possible.” This call” to action urges museums to acknowledge their past and reimagine their future.

Through community engagement, diversification, and a commitment to equity, museums can transform into spaces of inclusion and empowerment. Let us envision a future where museums truly reflect and celebrate humanity’s diversity and take the necessary steps to make that vision a reality.