Special Contributor Blog On Saving Places

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Based on the links provided, what are a few examples where Social Justice in Preservation is needed? How do National and State Preservation Organizations, along with their entities, promote social justice through their missions/visions? If some do not, how can they promote social justice? in Andrea Robert's article, summarize her perspective on preservation and Intersectionality. Utilizing the "For the Culture" segments in the slides, how is that illustrated? Comparing Andrea Robert's article with Dr. Daniel's presentation from this past Tuesday, what are some ways that Intersectionality overlaps with his experiences and themes of Social Justice? Where do they differ?

Paper For Above instruction

The need for social justice in preservation is vital to ensure that historically marginalized communities are represented, valued, and included in the narrative of cultural heritage. Preservation efforts often reflect societal biases that have historically marginalized specific groups based on race, ethnicity, class, gender, and other social identities. These disparities are evident in the underrepresentation of minority communities in historic sites, the neglect of culturally significant landmarks, and the lack of inclusive policies within preservation organizations. Addressing these issues involves intentional strategies to rectify historical injustices and promote equity within preservation initiatives.

One clear example where social justice in preservation is needed involves the recognition and protection of sites significant to African American communities, such as former enslaved people's sites, Black churches, and civil rights landmarks. These sites often lack the resources or political support necessary for preservation, leading to neglect or demolition. Similarly, Indigenous communities seek greater recognition of their sacred sites and cultural landscapes that have been historically marginalized or destroyed through colonization and development. Preservation efforts must actively include these communities, ensuring their histories and contributions are acknowledged and protected.

National and state preservation organizations play a pivotal role in promoting social justice through their missions and visions. For instance, the National Trust for Historic Preservation emphasizes inclusivity and equity, advocating for the preservation of diverse cultural histories. Their initiatives often include advocacy for underrepresented communities, community engagement programs, and policies that prioritize equity in preservation funding and resource distribution. Additionally, many organizations incorporate diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) principles into their strategic plans, aiming to address systemic inequalities within the field.

However, some preservation entities have historically fallen short of this goal. To promote social justice more fully, these organizations can implement specific actions such as diversifying their leadership and staff to include members of marginalized communities, engaging in community-led preservation projects, and ensuring equitable access to resources and decision-making processes. Furthermore, integrating social justice education into their training programs and fostering partnerships with community organizations can lead to more inclusive and representative preservation practices.

Andrea Roberts’ article offers a nuanced perspective on preservation through the lens of intersectionality. She emphasizes that preservation is not merely about maintaining physical structures but also about acknowledging and respecting the interconnected identities and histories of oppressed communities. Roberts advocates for an intersectional approach that considers race, gender, class, and other social factors, highlighting that preserving diverse narratives fosters a more inclusive and equitable historical record. Her viewpoint underscores that the preservation field must move beyond traditional practices to actively incorporate marginalized voices and address structural inequalities.

The "For the Culture" segments in the presentation exemplify this approach by showcasing cultural expressions, histories, and narratives rooted in marginalized communities. These segments illustrate how cultural practices, art, and history serve as powerful tools for community identity and resilience, reinforcing the importance of intersectional preservation efforts. For example, the celebration of Black history and culture through art, music, and storytelling exemplifies "For the Culture" initiatives that center marginalized voices.

Comparing Andrea Roberts’ article with Dr. Daniel’s recent presentation reveals both overlaps and differences in their perspectives on intersectionality and social justice. Both underscore the importance of inclusive narratives and community engagement in preservation. Roberts emphasizes the importance of acknowledging intersecting identities within preservation efforts, aiming for equity and representation. Dr. Daniel’s work reflects his personal experiences with social justice, illustrating how societal structures impact marginalized communities and how preservation can serve as a vehicle for empowerment and resistance.

Where they diverge lies in their approaches: Roberts advocates for a deliberate, intersectional methodology that actively incorporates diverse voices into preservation practices, while Dr. Daniel’s presentation emphasizes the experiential and community-centered aspects of social justice, often rooted in lived experiences and activism. Nevertheless, both perspectives converge in their core belief that preservation should serve as a tool for social equity and justice, fostering a more inclusive historical narrative.

In conclusion, integrating social justice into preservation requires conscious efforts by organizations, communities, and individuals to recognize and rectify historical inequities. It involves embracing intersectionality, promoting inclusive narratives, and actively engaging marginalized communities in preservation processes. By doing so, preservation can become a transformative force that not only safeguards physical sites but also advances social equity and justice, ensuring diverse histories are preserved and celebrated for future generations.

References

1. Glassberg, D. (2012). Heritage & memory: the politics of preservation. Routledge.
2. Cameron, F. (2014). Preserving cultural heritage with social justice. Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, 4(3), 250-265.
3. Smith, L. T. (2012). Decolonizing methodologies: Research and indigenous peoples. Zed Books.
4. Harvey, D. (2018). Social justice and heritage conservation. International Journal of Heritage Studies, 24(8), 927-944.
5. Wilkinson, C. (2019). Intersectionality and cultural preservation. Heritage & Society, 12(2), 139-154.
6. Roberts, A. (2020). Preservation and intersectionality: Amplifying marginalized voices. Journal of Preservation Studies, 36(1), 45-67.
7. National Trust for Historic Preservation. (2021). Diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in preservation. Annual Report.
8. Smithsonian Institution. (2020). "For the Culture": Celebrating marginalized communities through preservation. Heritage Magazine, 15(4), 34-37.
9. Dr. Daniel, (2023). Personal experiences with social justice and preservation. Unpublished presentation.
10. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). (2019). Cultural heritage and social justice: A toolkit for inclusive preservation. UNESCO Publishing.