From Neutrality to Credible Advocacy

Recommendation 3: From Neutrality to Credible Advocacy

Theme: Activism

How do we currently talk about it?

Museums should be neutral and unbiased in their presentation of objects, exhibits, and programming.

What are the consequences?

• Reinforces the perception that museums are, or have been, neutral.
• Ignores the conscious and subconscious bias that all people, including museum workers, have.
• Creates a hierarchy of whose truth is considered natural and neutral, enforcing cultural hegemony.
• Places limits on the stories that museums can tell, the relationships they are able to build, and the work that they can do in a community.
• Removes the ability of museums to be agents for social change.
• Creates internal fear of backlash when museums “step outside” of their traditional activities 
• Does not allow for interpretation and storytelling that honours multiple perspectives.

What is the reframe?

Museums are trusted institutions that can combat disinformation and encourage critical thinking by presenting the facts, sharing multiple perspectives, and creating space for dialogue. Museums should acknowledge their biases and encourage visitors to reflect on their own. Museums have a role in addressing societal issues like reconciliation, the climate crisis, and inequity. Younger Canadians in particular, want museums to take a more active role in advocating for social issues, because they are accountable to their communities.

What is the data to support the reframe?

• 80% of respondents agree that museums are a highly credible source of information, more than daily newspapers and television.
• 88% of respondents agree that museums give us information and perspective on important cultural and social issues.
• When asked how can museums address societal issues like climate change, COVID-19, racial injustice, etc.?
  • 65% of respondents said they should play a prominent role in education.
  • 44% of respondents said they should play a more active role in advocating for social change.
• 40% of respondents agree that museums should take a stand in their presentation of exhibits to challenge the status quo (only 16% disagree).

Useful Phrases:

Here are some suggested useful phrases that can be adopted into your individual writing and communication styles to help reframe the conversation around museums and neutrality.

• “Neutrality is a stance in itself.”
• “Museums offer interpretation. They help us make sense of our world.”
• “Museums create space for dialogue about the issues that are important.”
• “Museums are not neutral, but they can be credible.”
• Ask visitors questions to spark discussion, such as:
  • “Did anything in the exhibit surprise you?”
  • “How did the exhibit challenge your expectations?”
  • “What does neutrality mean to you?
  • “Had you considered the perspectives presented here before?”