This has been a difficult time for Americans. The murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and countless others have the country reeling in pain and demanding justice and equity. I have to ask, “What is the role of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art in responding to these events?”
Museums can be spaces of respite that celebrate the beauty and joy of humanity, but museums and their collections also reflect painful histories resulting from structural inequities. Arts organizations have to talk about these issues and how we live in a country that continues to privilege some, while systemically disenfranchising others. As we prepare for reopening to ensure the health and wellness of our staff and guests, we are also preparing for how The Westmoreland can serve as a space to have these difficult conversations openly and honestly using the framework of art.
While we are committed to diversifying our collection and temporary exhibitions to be more inclusive of the lived experiences that comprise the American experience, we realize that is not enough. We must reflect upon our institution’s own history in benefiting from and reinforcing inequitable power structures. We must be willing to facilitate an open dialogue and commit to the emotional labor of having these conversations. We must change our staff and board compositions and support black artists and businesses. We must stand with Black Lives Matter.
It is not going to be easy. We are going to make mistakes, but that is how we will learn and grow.
Anne Kraybill
Greensburg
The writer is director/CEO of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art.