De-Commemoration: Removing Statues and Renaming Places

De-Commemoration addresses the issue of problematic memorials and calls to dismantle them, drawing on research from memory dynamics experts across disciplines. It explores how de-commemoration transforms contemporary societies globally.

Format: Hardback
Length: 399 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

De-Commemoration: Examining the Global Shift

In the aftermath of recent protests against police violence and racism, a growing chorus of voices is calling for the dismantling of problematic memorials across the globe. While this phenomenon may not be entirely novel, its impact on contemporary societies is undeniable. De-Commemoration delves into the concept of de-commemoration, exploring its historical roots, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications.

From the ancient Greeks to the modern world, memorialization has played a crucial role in shaping collective memory and commemorating significant events. However, not all memorials are created equal, and some have been accused of perpetuating harmful narratives or glorifying oppressive regimes. De-Commemoration seeks to address these issues by examining the ways in which memorials can be redesigned or removed to promote a more inclusive and accurate representation of history.

One of the key themes of De-Commemoration is the role of public memory in shaping societal attitudes and behaviors. Memorials, whether they are statues, plaques, or monuments, have the power to shape how individuals perceive and remember historical events. By challenging or dismantling problematic memorials, communities can work towards creating a more inclusive and accurate narrative of the past.

Another important aspect of De-Commemoration is the need for dialogue and collaboration among different stakeholders. Memorials often evoke strong emotions and opinions, and their removal or redesign can be contentious. By engaging in open and honest dialogue, communities can build consensus and find mutually beneficial solutions to address the legacy of problematic memorials.

De-Commemoration also raises important questions about the role of government and institutions in preserving and promoting public memory. Governments have the responsibility to ensure that memorials are accurate, inclusive, and respectful of all individuals and communities. Institutions, such as museums and archives, play a critical role in documenting and preserving historical events and ensuring that they are accessible to the public.

In conclusion, De-Commemoration is a timely and important exploration of the global shift towards de-commemoration. By examining the historical roots, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications of de-commemoration, this collection seeks to provide insights into the ways in which memorials can be redesigned or removed to promote a more inclusive and accurate representation of history. As we navigate the complex terrain of memory and history, it is essential to engage in dialogue and collaboration to ensure that our collective memory is shaped in a way that promotes empathy, understanding, and social justice.

In the wake of recent protests against police violence and racism, calls to dismantle problematic memorials have reverberated around the globe. While this phenomenon may not be entirely novel, its impact on contemporary societies is undeniable. De-Commemoration delves into the concept of de-commemoration, exploring its historical roots, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications.

From the ancient Greeks to the modern world, memorialization has played a crucial role in shaping collective memory and commemorating significant events. However, not all memorials are created equal, and some have been accused of perpetuating harmful narratives or glorifying oppressive regimes. De-Commemoration seeks to address these issues by examining the ways in which memorials can be redesigned or removed to promote a more inclusive and accurate representation of history.

One of the key themes of De-Commemoration is the role of public memory in shaping societal attitudes and behaviors. Memorials, whether they are statues, plaques, or monuments, have the power to shape how individuals perceive and remember historical events. By challenging or dismantling problematic memorials, communities can work towards creating a more inclusive and accurate narrative of the past.

Another important aspect of De-Commemoration is the need for dialogue and collaboration among different stakeholders. Memorials often evoke strong emotions and opinions, and their removal or redesign can be contentious. By engaging in open and honest dialogue, communities can build consensus and find mutually beneficial solutions to address the legacy of problematic memorials.

De-Commemoration also raises important questions about the role of government and institutions in preserving and promoting public memory. Governments have the responsibility to ensure that memorials are accurate, inclusive, and respectful of all individuals and communities. Institutions, such as museums and archives, play a critical role in documenting and preserving historical events and ensuring that they are accessible to the public.

In conclusion, De-Commemoration is a timely and important exploration of the global shift towards de-commemoration. By examining the historical roots, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications of de-commemoration, this collection seeks to provide insights into the ways in which memorials can be redesigned or removed to promote a more inclusive and accurate representation of history. As we navigate the complex terrain of memory and history, it is essential to engage in dialogue and collaboration to ensure that our collective memory is shaped in a way that promotes empathy, understanding, and social justice.

Weight: 698g
Dimension: 158 x 239 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805391074