‘Let’s wake that museum back up’: Museum advocates grapple with responsibly connecting the past to the present

Key themes focused on creating interactive exhibits, making museum spaces more inclusive, and finding ways to make sure Indigenous people and others with history in communities — such as the Chinese Cultural Association in Kamloops — have an active role in storytelling.

“It gives everybody that platform and the opportunity to speak — whether it’s to the schools, whether it’s visitors from around the world, or whether it’s Elders or seniors who still want to collect that history or remember that history from a certain timeline they have that they grew up in,” says Antoine.

Participants also pointed out that museums have a platform that can put truth into truth and reconciliation with the information, history and stories they host. That aspect is a main driver of the Royal BC Museum sending teams out to various museums throughout the province to gather input.

“Truth and reconciliation, Indigenous reconciliation, narrative sovereignty and making sure communities are telling their own stories are some really key elements to the Royal BC Museum and museums in general,” notes Royal BC Museum Community Engagement Director Chris O’Connor.

As far as what is being displayed, local Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Tkwenem7iple7 (Councillor) Dave Manuel says it’s clear that some items don’t belong in a museum.

“If there’s anything like any sacred items or ancestral remains, it has to be returned back to our people so we can look after them and to know that we look after them in a good way,” said Manuel.

Historically, there has been hurt and frustration around what is, or isn’t included in exhibits — making Thursday’s discussions difficult at some points. But the Kamloops Museum’s supervisor, Julia Cyr, feels it’s a key part of making sure museums can truly be for everyone.

“We’re not, by any means as museum folk, here saying we are the experts on community voice and what is the history and what should be shared. That is for community to do,” reiterates Cyr. “We’re here to amplify voices.”

The conversations may not always be comfortable, but those who took part in Thursday’s exercise feel the growing pains are a sign that the future of museums is headed in the right direction.

“This is how we feel inclusive, and we feel a part of it. And it’s empowering for not just us but also all of the other people who are sitting at the table because all of the voices are being heard then. And I really appreciate that we had this opportunity today, so Kukwstsétsemc (thank-you),” adds Manuel.

by Dylana Kneeshaw

‘Let’s wake that museum back up’: Museum advocates grapple with responsibly connecting the past to the present

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