Across the nation, we are deeply shaken and distressed by the death of George Floyd and the widespread injustice towards the Black community. In light of current events and the national reckoning with deeply-rooted systemic racism in our country, it is vital and urgent to explore these issues in relation to museums and cultural institutions, both internally and in the context of supporting communities, serving diverse populations, and creating social impact.

This Monday, over 1,700 people joined Dan Sullivan (Head of Partnerships @ Cuseum), Kevin Thomas (Senior Manager, Membership and Annual Fund @ National Museum of African American History and Culture), Jeanette O’Bryant (Development Officer @ National Civil Rights Museum) & Ash Harris (VP of Guest Experience @ San Antonio Zoo) for a discussion that situated the national situation in the context of museums and culture. As membership, development, and guest services professionals, the panelists offered unique perspectives on how cultural organizations can renew their commitments to diversity, inclusion, and community support in this current moment and going forward.

Watch the full recording here.

Here are a few of the biggest takeaways from the conversation.