Book | Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion in Museums

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion in Museums is an anthology of essays that aim to address the why, what and how of the book’s title. That is, why issues regarding diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion (DEAI) still exist within the sector, what lessons have been learned by established members of the field and how DEAI can help resolve the problems museums face. 

Johnnetta Bestch Cole, the former director of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African Art, and Laura Lott, the president of the American Alliance of Museums, (along with the other US museum professionals who contributed to this text) attempt to demonstrate DEAI as key concerns for museums today.

Though comprising essays written exclusively in relation to the US sector, this book is still applicable to those working in UK museums. Many of the issues discussed, such as the homogeneous nature of the workforce, ever-decreasing government funding and remaining relevant in an age of changing demographics, are as critical to us in the UK as they are to our colleagues across the pond.

Through 17 chapters grouped into four sections the book expertly covers the various aspects of DEAI as it pertains to museology. Take, for example, Part 1: A Call to Action. Collectively, the four chapters cover DEAI in relation to under-represented groups, including people of colour working in museums and LGBTQ+ people, as well as disability representation and sexism. 

The wide-ranging backgrounds of the contributing authors means significant attention is given to specific areas of this topic and when one writer fails to consider an issue, another manages to fill the gaps. In addition, the variety of published papers, case studies and write-ups of talks the authors have used succeed in providing a convincing argument for DEAI, as readers are bound to find a perspective they understand and relate to.

But conversations on class are generally sidelined or overlooked. This is to the book’s detriment and it would have benefited from addressing this issue, which is as significant and intersecting a factor as any when discussing DEAI. 

The date range of the essays also contributes to a comprehensive consideration of DEAI. By presenting notable discussions on a topic that has evolved over time, the book provides a near-complete source for assessing the subject. 

 But the fact that statements around the necessity of DEAI in museums have been made for close to 20 years (or more if looking beyond this text) is a telling sign that key messages are lost in the shuffle of a sector that prefers words over action.

Ironically, one of the main themes in the text is the need for real commitment to enabling DEAI in the sector by whatever means necessary. One frequent suggestion in the book is to diversify the sector’s workforce, especially higher up, which in turn will create the attitudinal change required for meaningful DEAI practices. 

While it is hard to disagree with this standpoint, especially with the abundance of evidence and experience presented, it will be those with more agency and power in the sector that will be best positioned to act on this suggestion, should they choose to. 

The background of the authors as established museum professionals has made them inclined to give top-down advice. But what about those at the bottom with little power and authority? Then consider another of the book’s messages – that change and improvement are never a destination, but an ongoing process that is feasible at any size of institution. Change  is possible if one confronts biases or apprehensions and acts with awareness and innovativeness. 

This book is a motivating and perceptive companion piece for anyone who is interested or invested in its subject matter. If you are a museum worker, advocate or museology student, you should get your hands on a copy.