Over the last year I have been conducting research into the ways to combat the lack of diversity in heritage institutions. In a series of blog posts I explored practical ways to challenge problematic labelling, highlight erased groups, and improve overall representation in exhibitions.
I found, in all these instances, collaboration with under-represented groups is imperative. Collaboration resulted in fair representation in exhibitions, increased visitor numbers and increased diversity in visitors.(1) When collaborating with under-served groups, heritage spaces must ensure they do this ethically by fully understanding privilege, lived experience and emotional labour.
I call this empowered collaboration.
Continue reading “The birth of Empowered Collaboration!”