April 1997 will mark the 5th anniversary of the introduction of Excellence &
Equity, AAM's call for museums to increase their efforts to become more
inclusive institutions. At the annual meeting in Atlanta (April 26-30), AAM
will in introduce a Technical Information Services book outlining ways that
trustees can help their museums to recognize, represent, and honor the
diversity in their own communities. In addition to interviews with trustees
from minority communities, reports of visitor studies on diverse audiences,
and techniques for starting dialogue about the fundamental paradigm shifts
involved, the book will include an extensive resource section.

In it, we would like to include:
--examples of mission statements that express a fundamental commitment to
inclusive practices
--inclusion policies, position papers, or strategic plans aimed at reaching
new audiences
--exhibitions policies aimed at presenting diverse perspectives and cultural
traditions
--collections policies aimed at preserving contributions from diverse
cultures
Be sure to include a contact person and address for each of the above.

Please respond to Daryl Fischer at:
[log in to unmask] or
--Fax: 616-846-0563 or
--P.O. Box 685, Grand Haven, MI 49417

Thanks in advance for this valuable input. I will post a summary of responses
to the list and incorporate recommended resources in the book.

Daryl Fischer