I am proposing a session about controversial collections for the joint
meeting of AASLH and MAAM, which is to be held in Baltimore September 29 -
October 2, 1999.  The point will be to focus on permanent collections that
are - upon acquisition, once were, or have become controversial in some
way.  (This is not a session on controversial exhibitions though there is
an obvious connection.)  I am looking for potential panelists to speak and
welcome inquiries.  The proposal has to be submitted by Nov. 20th.
Presently I have three speakers touching on a range of subjects including:
a general overview; African-American collections, gender issues in
collections.  I would particularly like to find someone to talk about
controversial art, natural history collections.  I do not believe this
subject has been addressed in a conference and I would like to see a
lively, timely, and sensitive discussion about a matter that museums will
increasingly have to address.  Thank ou!