Colombia president removes artefacts from National Museum in ‘cultural counter-revolution’
President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared a "fight against wokism". The post Colombia president removes artefacts from National Museum in ‘cultural counter-revolution’ appeared first on The Bogotá Post .
In Colombia, President Abelardo de la Espriella has removed numerous artworks and historical items from the National Museum, sparking significant controversy throughout the nation. The removals took place on October 16, coinciding with the president's announcement of a "fight against wokism" during a speech at the Ministry of Culture and Heritage.
The term "wokism" is frequently used by conservative and right-wing leaders, including President de la Espriella, to accuse progressive agendas of being part of a broader strategy for mass manipulation.
The National Museum, one of Latin America's oldest institutions, houses a diverse collection of cultural artifacts, including pieces related to LGBTQ+ history, feminism, student movements, and the armed conflict. Critics argue that President de la Espriella's actions represent a "cultural counter-revolution," aimed at imposing a specific narrative on the country's history and stifling diverse perspectives.
Protests erupted outside the museum on October 17 and 18, with citizens, artists, and teachers from major universities, such as Universidad de los Andes and Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, joining the demonstrations. These groups expressed their concerns about political censorship and the manipulation of cultural memory. The removal of items has been met with strong opposition from prominent academic institutions and arts faculties, who argue that curatorship should be based on a thorough review and investigation process, rather than being decided at the last minute.
One of the most controversial items removed from the museum is a flag donated by Elizabeth Castillo, a prominent lawyer, writer, and pioneer of lesbian rights activism in Colombia. The collection also included historical archives, such as Ventana Gay, Colombia's first gay rights publication founded in 1980, as well as photographs documenting early pride demonstrations.
Feminist heritage was also affected, with seven works removed from the museum, including the country's first feminist publications and the manifesto from the 1978 campaign for gender equality.
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