Through our work with The Incluseum, we have found that a web of 11 interconnected values supports the relationships that are at the heart of inclusive practices.
These values guide our work and are easily adaptable to individual or institutional settings, for museums and beyond.
Through our work with The Incluseum, we have found that a web of 11 interconnected values supports the relationships that are at the heart of inclusive practices.
These values guide our work and are easily adaptable to individual or institutional settings, for museums and beyond.
Necessary to develop authentic relationships and collaborations. Takes time to cultivate; building trust is a process that cannot be rushed.
Mutually beneficial exchanges, collaborations, and outcomes. Resists extractive and exploitative modes of cultural production.
The idea of something ringing true and whose true motives are congruent with its rhetoric and behavior.
To take responsibility for behaviors that cause harm–past and present–and build relationships that center trust. To follow through. Functions both on an individual and institutional level.
Linked to the concept of hospitality. Communicated through a space’s architecture, signage, and employees. To make room for diverse contributions to co-create a space and its activities.
To give full attention to somebody else’s truth. In an institutional setting, this can be supported through soliciting feedback and embracing iterative approaches.
To recognize and value multiple knowledges and decenter the institution as sole holder and creator of knowledge. To prioritize co-creation and collaboration.
Practices that open processes to both public participation and scrutiny. Can include the necessary acknowledgment of past harms.
Investment of time necessary to build trusting relationships. Mitigates the potential of perpetuating tokenizing modes of relating.
A way of connecting with people, critiquing apathy, and resisting harmful systems.
Attunement to historical forces that contribute to contemporary relational and structural dynamics. Situated within an overarching commitment to dismantling oppressive systems. Involves critical self-awareness, iteratively envisioning, and rebuilding.
Relating with respect and valuing different lived experiences, realities, and truths. Can function as a counterbalance to apathy and as a resistance to harmful systems and relational patterns.
When everyone can meaningfully participate in co-creating the culture of an organization. Situated within an overarching commitment to dismantling oppressive systems. Involves critical self-awareness, iteratively envisioning new possibilities, and rebuilding.
An extended description of each value can be found in our book, “Transforming Inclusion in Museums: The Power of Collaborative Inquiry” (2022).