Barbadians are being encouraged not to perceive the Barbados Museum and Historical Society (BMHS) as an organisation only for intellects and the elite but one which serves the needs of all sectors of society.
This assertion came from Minister of Community Development and Culture, Steven Blackett, who stressed that the department had a significant role to play in the shaping of this nation’s mirror image, that is, its cultural, historical and environmental heritage.
Speaking during the opening of the 75th Anniversary Exhibition of the Barbados Museum and Historical Society at St. Ann’s Garrison yesterday, he said, “It is not simply here as a tourist attraction. It belongs to all of us. It is our Museum… This institution in carrying out its mandate, brings together through its exhibits and galleries, those artifacts and pieces of information, which best represent who and what we are as a people and, which will assist us in defining ourselves.”
Mr. Blackett added that while the department was doing its best to respond to the needs of a changing population, it required some feedback to better serve its constituents.
According to him, the onus was on Barbadians to take advantage of the educational opportunities made available by the BMHS.
“It is our responsibility to reflect on where we have come from in relation to where we are now, to appreciate our achievements over the years and, to reconnect with the values and traditions which defined our ancestors,” the Minister pointed out.
He also urged more young persons to do volunteer work with the Museum and to serve on that organisation’s Council.
The exhibition, entitled “75 years of Barbadiana at the BMHS”, runs from July 14 to October 15, and is open Mondays to Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays, 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. There is no admission fee.