Based on feedback collected during more than three years of consultations, I have made a decision about the Alberta History mural that is painted on a wall in Rutherford Library on North Campus. These consultations have resulted in many conversations and reflections on how the work portrays Indigenous and European history in Alberta. Those who want to see the mural removed express that its portrayal of Indigenous peoples and history causes harm and is racist. Simultaneously, many people are interested in the conservation of the mural so it can remain for teaching and research purposes and to uphold the principles of art conservation and preservation.
A working group within the Library & Museums portfolio brought forward a recommendation to the 海角社区 Museums' Policy and Planning committee in January 2025, which was then voted on and approved. I carefully considered the committee’s recommendation, keeping in mind the feedback I've read and heard over the course of the consultations. In accordance with the Deaccession and Disposition of Museum Objects and Collections Procedure, on behalf of the Board of Governors, I have decided to accept the committee's recommendation, which is to:
- Deaccession the mural and remove it as an art holding from the 海角社区 Museums Art Collection. 海角社区 Museums will then no longer be responsible for maintaining the mural, and will have no obligation for condition checks.
- Affix a cover over the mural so that it is no longer visible.
- Add an interpretive panel next to the covering explaining the history of the mural and why it is covered and offering information for those who want to view the mural digitally.
- Maintain the digital archive of the mural.
This is a decision I did not make lightly. I know the future of the mural is important to many people in the 海角社区 community, and it would be impossible to make a decision that would please everyone. I know that not everyone will feel positive about this decision, but I believe it is the best one that addresses many of the concerns heard during the process: the mural will no longer be visible and cause harm, but it will not be destroyed. I strongly feel this is the best compromise, given the wide-ranging opinions on the matter.
Throughout the consultation process, it was critical to hear from so many people and have so many points of view represented. The consultation process represented the diverse community at the 海角社区 and our external communities.
One thing that was most apparent to me was that students of many backgrounds indicated they felt unwelcome and uncomfortable in Rutherford Library–South’s reading room. Our responsibility to our students is to create spaces where all individuals feel respected and safe. This is particularly true for those spaces that have been designed to support student learning.
Ensuring the mural is no longer visible supports our commitments to respond to the Calls to Action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and is an act of reconciliation. This path forward also aligns with our strategic plans including the Student Experience Action Plan and Braiding Past, Present and Future, which in turn inform the Library’s .
Art, in all its forms, can serve as a reflection of its time, and it can provoke discussion, emotion and discomfort. The 海角社区 has extensive documentation about the mural and its creation, including the artist's preparatory drawings, in the Museums Art Collection. These images remain part of the 海角社区 Museums in perpetuity, enabling the mural to continue serving as a teaching and research resource. This decision does not erase the conversation around the art or its context. We will continue to engage in dialogue about the impact of such representations and work to create opportunities for education, reflection and growth. Our university will remain a place where difficult discussions can take place and where the dignity and humanity of all people are always prioritized.
I want to thank everyone who participated in the engagement sessions or shared their feedback. I appreciate the thoughtful considerations and diverse points of view.
Verna Yiu
Provost and Vice-President (Academic)