This symposium examines how descendant communities can move beyond participation in museum interpretation to actively shape curatorial and research practice itself. Museum X, Royal Museums Greenwich and Black Beyond Data at Johns Hopkins University present findings from a year-long collaboration exploring how collections related to African presence, colonialism and their legacies might be researched, interpreted and cared for through approaches centred on shared authority, lived experience and community-led research.
The day brings together descendant co-researchers, artists, researchers and museum practitioners to discuss emerging ethical frameworks, share findings and explore what more collaborative museum practice requires. Highlights include reflections from descendant community members, the premiere of a filmed conversation with community co-researchers and collector Michael Graham-Stewart, discussions on descendant-led research and shared authority, and creative practice sessions.
Practical details
- Tea and coffee provided at the start; lunch available from Benugo's at the National Maritime
- Step-free access to the Maritime; lifts available inside the museum to reach the Lecture Theatre
- Places are limited; release your ticket if your plans change
- Contact: [email protected]
