Department Chair

Andrew D. Nicholls, Ph.D.

Date of Award

1-2021

Access Control

Open Access

Degree Name

Museum Studies, M.A.

Department

History and Social Studies Education Department

Advisor

Daniel DiLandro, M.L.S., Head of Archives & Special Collections

Department Home page

https://history.buffalostate.edu/museum-studies-ma

First Reader

Daniel DiLandro, M.L.S., Head of Archives & Special Collections

Second Reader

Noelle Wiedemer, M.A., Lecturer of Museum Studies

Third Reader

N/A

Abstract

LGBT+ (gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender, also called queer) people have always existed. The history of queer people has been repressed and destroyed. As culture changes and becomes more accepting of these identities, queer people are living more openly, and history is being well recorded. Museums are institutions that are responsible for representing and perpetuating cultural views, and therefore have a responsibility to include a diverse variety of people. One strategy to normalize queerness is to integrate it into museums. This guide will explore queer inclusion, with an emphasis on transgender inclusion, in all different types of museums. The following types of museums will be explored: art, children’s, history, and science. The science section will be longer, as the author himself works in a science museum. Multiple suggestions and ideas on how to integrate queerness into these museums will be presented. Exhibitions may be a large part of museums, but something often overlooked is the importance of employees. Museum staff members may identify as queer. Tips on how to treat and approach these employees will be discussed. This guide will wrap up with how to embrace diversity and with concluding thoughts.

Comments

This paper was written to educate museum professionals about the queer community and how to create an inclusive environment.

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