We are happy to share a video recording of the RWG's first virtual panel discussion, What are we conserving? Reflections on colonial practices in conservation, recorded on May 26th, 2021 through Zoom. The panel features experiences and perspectives from Sean Young (Haida Gwaii Museum), Meranda Roberts (Field Museum), and John Moses (Canadian Conservation Institute) and a rich discussion moderated by Heidi Swierenga (Museum of Anthropology, UBC).
This was our first rodeo! We sincerely apologize for the technical difficulties that were encountered. For those of you who could not make it into the Zoom session, please enjoy the video recording. We'd love to hear your thoughts, comments, and/or questions. Feel free to comment below, or to write us directly through the webform or at rwg.cac.accr@gmail.com.
We received some great questions from attendees, and John offered many resources in the chat, which are included below. The discussion often returned to the fact that conservators need to understand the legal obligations they and their institutions have to consult Indigenous Peoples, with free, prior, and informed consent. Museum policies and practices, including conservation practice, need to comply with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and follow ethical guidelines. Check out the following!
Sean and John reminded us to be aware of and to follow community established protocols prior to reaching out for consultations. For examples, see protocols and procedures from the Six Nations Council and Council of the Haida Nation.
Meranda’s blog and her Exhibiting Kinship podcast that she co-hosts with Felicia Garcia are also really great resources too!