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The Mixed Museum

Reclaiming histories through science: DNA testing and the lives of ‘Brown Babies’ families

Project goals:  

  • Co-production: Enable a period of shared conversations and working with the ‘Brown Babies’ cohort around the role of DNA in their lives – led by a paid steering group (PSG)
  • Commission: The creation of a final output that the cohort feels best explores their conversations, reflections and learning during the project about the role of DNA in their lives
  • Learning: The creation of a documented insight (e.g. booklet or film, as decided by cohort) into the project process

Reclaiming histories through science: DNA testing and the lives of ‘Brown Babies’ families is a year-long co-production project themed around DNA testing, led by the ‘Brown Babies’ families cohort and supported by the newly formed project management team (PMT).

The formation of the cohort is now complete but with room to grow as the project gains traction. Its 30-plus members include the grandchildren of the ‘brown babies’ who were born following the stationing of Black GIs in the UK during WWII.

It was immediately clear from the first webinar held that the space the project provides is both greatly needed by members of the cohort, and deeply emotional for both the cohort and some members of the PMT.

While many in the cohort are very interested in learning more about the science behind DNA testing, the overwhelming need is to share the emotional experiences behind the decision to test, as well as the emotional impacts of testing. This is also true for the descendants of the ‘brown babies’ who are keen to discuss the nature of ‘generational trauma’.

The PMT are reflecting on how to best provide support to the group – and the PMT members – while maintaining boundaries and expectations that the Mixed Museum can manage, particularly after the project ends. 

“I am thrilled that The Mixed Museum has been awarded funding as part of the Mindsets + Missions programme. Our collaborative project aims to let those who have become known as ‘brown babies’ families – that is, the children of Black GIs and White British women born during second world war – to take the genuine lead in shaping exploration into the role of DNA testing in their lives. Our innovative proposal was the direct result of conversations and thinking that emerged during the Mindsets + Missions programme, and it’s wonderful that the funders have recognised this and are supportive of our aims. We can’t wait to get started.”

Chamion Caballero, founder and chief executive, The Mixed Museum

Plans to provide paid opportunities via a project steering group have been delayed until after the cohort has been well-established. This decision comes with the recognition that the opportunity would have favoured cohort members who already knew the PMT well and the team wished to avoid any perception of preferential treatment. Monetary payments also present complications for anyone receiving income support or a pension, so a solution to this is being investigated.

Overall, the project is co-creating a transformative space where new knowledge about the role of DNA in the lives of ‘Brown Babies’ families is generated in an equitable and empowering, rather than extractive, way. Ideas for the final output are already underway and include an artwork, a book, some variation on the ‘blue plaque’ scheme, and a digital resource to aid decision-making and help newcomers navigate the emotional journey behind DNA testing. 

Visit The Mixed Museum and explore their digital exhibition Brown Babies, winner of the MA’s Museums Change Lives Digital Engagement Award in 2021.

Hero image: A group of small children in a sepia-toned image from the Mixed Museum

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