Understanding and Implementing Inclusion in Museums

Museums need to be inclusive, and this book provides guidelines, strategies, and tools for creating inclusion through partnerships with people and community organizations, driving social change, and evaluating the inclusiveness of museums. It also features an encyclopedic Whos Who of museum professionals serving as advocates, agents, and architects of inclusion.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 09 April 2018
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Museums have a crucial role to play in promoting inclusivity and diversity within their communities. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for museums to be more accessible and welcoming to people from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals. This has led to the development of various strategies and initiatives aimed at creating inclusive museum experiences.

One of the key challenges facing museums in promoting inclusion is the need to define what it means to be inclusive. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to inclusion, and different museums may have different priorities and goals. However, there are some common principles that can guide museums in their efforts to be more inclusive.

Inclusion in museums can be achieved through a variety of strategies, including partnerships with community organizations, the use of accessible technologies, and the development of culturally sensitive programming. Museums can also work to create a welcoming and inclusive environment by hiring a diverse staff and providing training on diversity and inclusion for employees.

One of the key benefits of promoting inclusion in museums is that it can help to break down barriers and promote understanding and empathy between different groups of people. Museums can provide a platform for marginalized voices and experiences to be heard and celebrated, which can help to challenge stereotypes and promote social change.

In addition, promoting inclusion in museums can have economic benefits. Studies have shown that museums that are more inclusive and diverse are more likely to attract visitors and generate revenue. This can help to support the long-term sustainability of museums and their ability to provide valuable services to their communities.

However, promoting inclusion in museums can also be challenging. Museums may face resistance from certain groups of people or may struggle to find the resources and funding needed to implement inclusive practices. Additionally, museums may need to navigate complex issues of cultural sensitivity and appropriation, which can be sensitive and complex topics to address.

Despite these challenges, there are many examples of museums that have successfully promoted inclusion and diversity. These museums have worked to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for visitors from all backgrounds and have developed programming that reflects the diversity of their communities.

In conclusion, museums need to be inclusive to promote diversity, break down barriers, and promote understanding and empathy between different groups of people. By partnering with community organizations, using accessible technologies, and developing culturally sensitive programming, museums can create a welcoming and inclusive environment that benefits everyone. However, promoting inclusion in museums can also be challenging, and museums may need to navigate complex issues of cultural sensitivity and appropriation. By continuing to prioritize inclusion and diversity, museums can play a vital role in promoting social change and creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 181 x 236 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538110515