Refashioning Destiny: A Critical Examination of a State History Museum's Highlight Film

• In Event: Place, Space, and Lessons for Social Justice

Abstract

State-created museums invite thousands of students into their spaces to share the stories of their state's founding, the contributions of individuals and communities, and other unique facts that make their state special. Yet, these carefully curated museums have long served as means of indoctrination and hegemonic assimilation. Using the frameworks of cultural memory and critical race theory, we examined our state's history museum and its premier film, paying particular attention to the depictions of historically marginalized groups. Our analysis revealed an elaborate curriculum space obfuscating historical and contemporary injustices via exclusionary cultural memory rooted in nationalism and whiteness. Implications for stakeholders include infusing critical historical narratives and reforming inaccurate portrayals of marginalized communities throughout the museum.

Authors

• Melissa Rojas Williams, The University of Texas at Austin

• Joanna Batt, The University of Texas at Austin

• Michael Joseph, The University of Texas at Austin

• Heath T Robinson, The University of Texas at Austin