Presence and Power: Beyond Feminism in Museums

Abstract

Gender inequity has affected museums for as long as these institutions have existed. Increased representation of women in the workplace over the past 50 years has not brought about significant changes. In the museum sector, despite the fact that white women now dominate many areas of the museum like education departments, women of color are not equally represented, and there are continued gaps in compensation and access to power for women and gender minorities across race and ability. Without direct intervention, museums will continue to replicate societal patterns of oppression such as sexism, racism, and ableism. It will take an intentional and comprehensive strategy to transform museum practices towards greater gender equity. It is time for a new intersectional feminist agenda that focuses on increased representation for women of color and gender minorities, and closes the gendered leadership gap. It is time to move women and gender minorities in the field from presence to power. As the frequent catalysts for critical reflection and institutional change, educators are well-positioned to lead this movement.

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