Abstract
The study summarizes the outreach and inclusion practices at the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, analyzing current barriers, public practices, and DEI efforts aimed at engaging and representing the LGBTQ+ audience. It also addresses the current perceptions regarding LGBTQ+ programming of museums from different staff perspectives, from curators to volunteers and interns. The research helps to overcome the gap between the theory and practice of LGBTQ+ inclusion in museum environments. It summarizes and consolidates the efforts and challenges of four diverse museums (The Carnegie Museum of Art, The Carnegie Museum of Natural History, The Carnegie Science Center, and The Andy Warhol Museum), which historically have played a key cultural role in the City of Pittsburgh. The methods used include autoethnography, semi-structured interviews, and an online survey. The results demonstrate a broad use of interpretive and inclusive techniques and a wide variety of programming at all four museums, as well as collaboration with the LGBTQ community, employees, and museum leadership. This research underscores the museums’ commitment to expanding access, diversity, and inclusion despite current political and cultural anxieties, while continuing to play a leading role in justifying the trust placed in them by the community, both within and beyond Pittsburgh.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
LGBTQ+ Inclusion, Programming, Museums
