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Heritage Interrupted: The Future of Ghana's Past

Raymond Silverman, Professor, History of Art and Afroamerican and African Studies; Director, Museum Studies

Humanities Center, Conference Room D 2nd Floor, Rush Rhees Library

Abstract

Who owns the past and who is responsible for conserving it? In Ghana, these questions are not easily answered. Today, the erosion of many of the cultural practices that once safeguarded both tangible and intangible heritage, as well as a government that seeks economic development at any cost and is interested in the past only as a tourist commodity, have led to the widespread exploitation and neglect of the country’s heritage resources. This situation is by no means unique to Ghana; indeed, it seems to be a global phenomenon. This afternoon’s talk explores the fundamental question, what significance does heritage hold for the citizens of Ghana? It considers the challenges facing the institutions and individuals who have been tasked with protecting the nation’s patrimony.

Refreshments will be provided.

Sponsored by the ATHS and Selwyns Lecture Fund.