By Ella Michaels
The International Exhibition Centre Mbari recently played host to a diverse gathering of guests, cultural stakeholders, museum professionals, students, and heritage enthusiasts as they commemorated World Culture Day and International Museum Day. Barrister Jerry Egemba, the Honourable Commissioner of the Ministry of Tourism, Hospitality, and Culture, delivered a heartfelt keynote address, emphasizing the significant themes of the event: "Embracing the Journey, Shaping Our Future" and "The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities."
*The Importance of Cultural Heritage*
Barrister Egemba articulated that these observances are not just annual events, but vital reminders of the richness of cultural heritage and the immediate need for its preservation amidst societal changes. "To embrace the journey is to acknowledge our roots," he stated, encouraging participants and the whole world to recognize and celebrate the struggles, stories, and triumphs that shape our identities. He noted that understanding our complex heritage is essential, not as a burden, but as a source of pride and strength. Moreover, he stressed the importance of adapting to the evolving nature of culture, which thrives on the synergy between tradition and innovation.
*The Significance of Embracing Our Journey*
Embracing our journey means acknowledging the struggles, stories, and triumphs that have shaped our identities. It means recognizing the importance of our cultural heritage and taking steps to preserve it for future generations. By embracing our journey, we can draw strength from our shared experiences and work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse society.
*Shaping Our Future*
The address also called upon participants to collectively "shape our future" by utilizing culture as a unifying tool for growth and peace. Barrister Egemba painted a vision for a future where languages are preserved, arts are celebrated, and youth are empowered to share their narratives. "Diversity must be seen as an asset," he asserted, adding that cultural expressions should serve as bridges rather than barriers. To achieve these lofty goals, he laid out several key actions, including supporting museums, heritage sites, archives, and oral traditions, and documenting festive rituals, languages, music, and arts for future generations.
*The Role of Museums*
Barrister Egemba also highlighted the importance of museums in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. He encouraged museums to adopt innovations such as digital exhibitions and interactive tools to captivate a wider and younger audience. He called for museums to provide a platform for authentic narratives, actively engaging with source communities to present diverse histories, particularly those of marginalized voices. He encouraged local involvement in curation and preservation efforts, fostering a sense of ownership and relevance to the communities they serve.
*The Event Highlights*
The event was marked by several highlights, including educative drama presentations, Igbo choral music, traditional dances, and local cuisine. These activities showcased the rich cultural heritage of the region and provided a platform for spectators to engage with and appreciate the diverse cultural expressions on display.
*A Call to Action*
As the event came to a close, Barrister Egemba inspired participants to renew their commitment to cultural preservation and dialogue, envisioning a society where culture thrives, everyone has a voice, and no one is oppressed. "Let us cultivate this journey with pride and passion, fostering bridges to a brighter, more inclusive future," he ended, wishing all a joyful World Culture Day and Museum Day.
*Conclusion*
The commemoration of World Culture Day and Museum Day serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and the role that museums play in preserving and promoting it. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to support our museums, heritage sites, and cultural institutions, and work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse society. By embracing our heritage and shaping our future, we can build a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.
