Museums, Sustainability & Well-Being

by Carolyn Smith, Visitor Services Assistant

When one thinks about museums as an institution, the terms “sustainability” and “well-being” are unlikely to be the first words to pop into one's head. Many would think of the words "history", "artifacts", or "exhibits". However, contrary to the mainstream idea that museums are solely available to give us a glimpse into another time, these institutions and other heritage organizations have the potential to contribute to current social, economic, and environmental goals within one’s community. For the month of May, qathet Museums & Archives has dedicated time to promote the heritage institutions of the region for the celebration of B.C.'s Museum Week and International Museum Day. To participate in events taking place across the globe, the qathet Museum is following the theme provided by the

International Council of Museums (ICOM), “Museums, Sustainability, and Well-Being”. We at the qathet Museum & Archives intend to showcase how heritage organizations can change communities and assist in sustainable development The ICOM publicly stated on their website, “There are many ways in which museums can contribute to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals: from supporting climate action and fostering inclusivity, to tackling social isolation and improving mental health”.

We call upon our community members to reflect on the qathet Museum & Archives' potential to assist the district in its goals to create a more economically, environmentally, and socially sustained region and the promotion and preservation of cultural and