The Queer-Inclusive Museum (original) (raw)

Museums today are demonstrating an increased commitment to LGBTQ communities through exhibitions that center their stories. These queer-focused exhibitions are valuable tools for broadening representation, but the messages they carry are only as strong as the institution’s commitment to queer inclusion. When queer narratives are limited to temporary exhibitions during Pride Month or isolated in queer-themed galleries, it suggests that they are “special interest” and unimportant. However, with the support of comprehensive queer inclusion, exhibitions can be stronger, more powerful tools for inclusion. This article explores queer inclusion in four tiers: programming, temporary exhibitions, interpretive strategy, and broad institutional commitment. This article first appeared in the journal Exhibition (Fall 2017) Vol. 36 No. 2 and is reproduced with permission. www.name-aam.org