Minister Anroux Marais' Speech at the Museum Symposium

WESTERN CAPE MINISTER OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS AND SPORT, ANROUX MARAIS

MUSEUM SYMPOSIUM

10 JUNE 2019

Good afternoon, goeiedag, molweni nonke

Museums are places where time is transformed into space through which artefacts, exhibitions and personal heritage is showcased to share the stories of the past with present and future generations.

Museums play an instrumental role in promoting respect and the understanding of our cultural diversity in the Western Cape. Much like libraries, museums contribute to our vision of a socially inclusive society. It is for this reason that the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) has prioritised its programme of transformation through the renewal of displays and community consultation which ultimately is more representative of all who call the Western Cape home.

To highlight the fundamental significance of museums in the development of society, our Department annually supports affiliated Province-aided- and Local museums with an annual subsidy and grant payments respectively to assist with the museums’ operational requirements. The Museum Service therefore sets out to build understanding and pride of our diverse heritage through the affiliated museums and thrives on sharing it with all who walks through their doors.

I trust this symposium will afford the opportunity to share experiences, models and ideas to further explore the benefits and challenges affiliated with the transformation of our cultural heritage landscape through our museum services. I also encourage all to enjoy the little time they have in Caledon to experience the cultural blend, the breath-taking scenery and truly submerse yourself into the unique diversity of the Overberg district.

I thank all of you for assisting the Department in sharing the Western Cape story with wide varieties of audiences who visit your respective museums. Your efforts do not go unnoticed because as Nanette Avery reminds, to preserve the past is to save the future.

I thank you.