NEMO Launches New Resource on LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in European Museums

At the recent NEMO European Museum Conference, the Network of European Museum Organisations (NEMO) presented its latest resource, “LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in European Museums: An Incomplete Guideline.” This new publication provides practical advice, policy overviews, and real-world scenarios aimed at helping museums become more inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals, cultures, and histories. Authored by Arent Boon, the guideline addresses the need for museums to implement LGBTQIA+ inclusive policies that ensure all communities feel welcome, both as visitors and staff.

Key scenarios and Ethical guidance

The guideline features scenarios (pages 14–22) that explore potential challenges, including revising exhibition content, navigating sensitive language, and ensuring infrastructure to ensure that all visitors feel safe and welcome. Each scenario, as well as the overall guideline, underscore the importance of adopting a thoughtful, comprehensive approach that goes beyond surface-level changes.

In addition to the full guideline, NEMO has published a condensed 4-page Ethical Guideline that focuses on practical areas such as:

• Working with collections

• Developing exhibitions and displays

• Creating inclusive professional environments

• Interacting with audiences

• Engaging in partnerships with communities

Since the guideline is described as “incomplete,” NEMO invites museums and professionals to contribute their own policies, case studies, and scenarios from their experiences. These contributions will be added to a dedicated webpage, helping the resource evolve into a shared tool for the sector. NEMO’s goal is to build a living, collaborative document that museums can continue to reference and expand upon as they work towards greater inclusivity.

For more information and to access the full guidelines, visit the NEMO website.