A Herefordshire town councillor, Ewen Sinclair, has publicly denounced an upcoming event intended to guide the redevelopment of the new Hereford Museum, labelling it an exercise in “woke virtue-signalling.” Sinclair's comments were made in a Facebook post detailing the “Contentious Narratives” event, which is part of a broader initiative to encourage public dialogue about how museums should navigate complex subjects like misinformation and contested histories.
This event forms part of a series orchestrated by the Herefordshire Council’s museums and galleries department, aimed at engaging the community in shaping the direction of the new £18-million museum and art gallery set to open in Broad Street. Damian Etheraads, head of the museum department, stated that the discussion is intended to explore ways to present challenging topics with integrity, avoiding the pitfalls of dogmatism while fostering a more nuanced public understanding.
In his criticism, Sinclair voiced concerns over the council's approach, asserting that the event would not genuinely promote open dialogue but rather dictate how participants should think about significant issues like “fake news.” He suggested that Etheraads, who will lead the discussion, is merely engaging in self-promotion. However, a council spokesperson clarified the event’s purpose, stating that attendees would not be told what to think, but rather offered an opportunity to engage with the ideas and principles underlying the museum’s redevelopment.
The importance of such public assemblies cannot be understated, given the current societal context where misinformation and fractured narratives significantly impact public discourse. Herefordshire Council has introduced a series of these assemblies, with previous topics including ethical considerations surrounding the exhibition of human remains, and exploring the language used in historical displays, such as the use of BC/AD versus BCE/CE. These sessions are designed to reflect contemporary community values while ensuring that the museum remains relevant and engaging.
The launch of these public forums is part of a rebranding effort under the scheme titled “Heritage Reimagined – Revitalising Hereford’s Heritage,” which aims not only to modernise the museum's identity but also to elevate local voices in the historical narrative. Over 60 residents from various backgrounds have already participated in co-production panels dedicated to ensuring diverse representation, but the museum service acknowledges a continuing need for increased engagement from underrepresented groups, emphasising the rich plurality that characterises Herefordshire's community.
The upcoming event on June 7 at the History Store in Friars Street invites residents to contribute their perspectives on how historical narratives should be presented. It aims to create an ethical and inclusive framework that reflects the complex tapestry of local history. Etheraads emphasised that engaging with the community is essential to create a museum experience that not only showcases past events but also reflects the diverse stories that shape the present.
While Council Sinclair's remarks may highlight a division in perspectives regarding "woke" culture and the purpose of public discussions, it is essential that forums like these continue to exist, allowing for meaningful conversations around contentious subjects. They serve as critical platforms where diverse viewpoints can be aired, hopefully bridging gaps and enriching the historical narratives that are essential to community identity.
The redevelopment of the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery aims to catalyse positive socio-economic impacts, providing the community with a space that both educates and entertains, whilst being mindful of its historical significance. By embracing public engagement, the council hopes to adapt the museum to better resonate with contemporary issues, cultivating a space that invites all voices to partake in the dialogue around heritage and history.
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Source: Noah Wire Services