A team of researchers gathered at the University of Ottawa on September 23 for a scientific conference to discuss a new project: a hybrid Museum of African Memories. The museum would feature both traditional and contemporary African arts. The project's initiator, Éric Impion, explained that the goal is to present Africa beyond stereotypes and highlight the contributions of African immigrant communities in Canada. He hopes that the project will have a positive impact on the future of Canadian cities.
The project is seen as a "real journey" by Nathalie Mondain, a professor responsible for undergraduate studies in African studies. She believes that it is not about finding a new landscape but about seeing the world with different eyes. The project aims to challenge the existing narrative and promote a more nuanced understanding of Africa. Mondain's comments highlight the importance of rethinking one's perspective.
Odome Angone, a visiting professor at the University of Ottawa, emphasized the need to deconstruct the "colonial library" within the Franco-Ontarian diaspora. She discussed the concept of "exile squared," which refers to both geographical and linguistic exile. Angone called for a rethinking of certain concepts, such as the "Global South," and encouraged people to avoid internalized alienation.
Jonathan Paquette, a professor at the School of Political Studies at the University of Ottawa, believes that museums, despite their colonial history, should not be dismissed. Instead, they should be reimagined. The African Museum project aims to promote the French language, beyond Canada's bilingualism. The conference, organized by the Projet Mémoire d'Afrique, the Centre de recherche sur l'avenir des villes, and the Chaire de recherche sur les politiques du patrimoine culturel de la Francophonie internationale, focused on the theme "African Memories in Canada: Minority Narratives and Institutionalization."
The conference participants discussed the challenges of implementing the project, including securing funding. A follow-up international colloquium is planned for March 2027 to further develop the project. The initial plan is to establish a temporary museum while awaiting funding. The project's organizers acknowledge that funding is a significant challenge.
The project's goals align with the objectives of the organizations involved. The Projet Mémoire d'Afrique, the Centre de recherche sur l'avenir des villes, and the Chaire de recherche sur les politiques du patrimoine culturel de la Francophonie internationale are all committed to promoting cultural understanding and exchange. The African Museum project has the potential to contribute to this effort.
The project's impact on Canadian cities and the African diaspora community remains to be seen. However, the conference participants' enthusiasm and commitment to the project suggest that it has the potential to make a positive difference. The project's success will depend on the collaboration and support of various stakeholders.
Key points
- The project aims to challenge existing stereotypes and promote a more nuanced understanding of Africa.
- The museum will feature both traditional and contemporary African arts.
- A follow-up international colloquium is planned for March 2027 to further develop the project.
