Paper short abstract:

This paper discusses some of the findings of two ethnographic projects during which I have explored representations of African diaspora communities and articulations of racism and anti-racism in museums in different countries in Europe, the United States, and Africa.

Paper long abstract:

Regardless of their field, the responsibility to consider the legacy of colonialism and the implications of racism falls on every museum. Many museums have begun to reform their policies and methods of work to become less racist or antiracist, approaching the subject from a variety of different circumstances. Differences already arise in which disciplines are central to each museum, and what subjects they specialize in. Some museums have approached the issue through examining their own history and collections from new perspectives, some have focused more on creating new collaborative networks and developing more inclusive work practices, and often these strategies have been combined. Some museums have not yet begun the project at all.

To view the multifaceted relationship between museums and anti-racism requires a variety of perspectives. For museums, an inclusive anti-racist work approach brings with it, among other things, the question of who may represent marginalized groups and racialised minority communities. In addition to other factors, the heterogeneity of communities of people who identify with racialized minorites, as well as the nature of activism practiced by some communities can complicate creating a dialogue and collaboration between museums and their audiences.