Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) Statement of the German American Heritage Center and Museum (GAHC+M):

At the German American Heritage Center and Museum (GAHC+M), we recognize that diversity is the foundation of our collective cultural heritage within the United States. Our aim is to honor and celebrate the rich tapestry of immigrant experiences that have shaped the United States, beginning with the contributions of German Americans and extending to all cultural communities.

We are committed to the principles of Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion in every aspect of our organization.

This commitment drives us to:

1. Embrace Diversity: We acknowledge the importance of representing a wide array of voices and narratives. Our exhibitions, programs, and events reflect the diverse experiences of all immigrant and ethnic groups throughout the world and in the Quad Cities, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared history and multi-ethnic culture. For example, our With You, I Am Myself photo exhibition was a collaboration with the Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities and CHAVERIM – Friendship with Israel eV, an organization based in Norderstedt, Germany. The exhibit featured photographs by Israeli artist and photographer Oranit Ben Zimra, showcasing 24 pairs of friends and forming a mosaic of German-Israeli relationships. It celebrated the power of friendship across cultural differences. This also includes recent updates to our permanent exhibit, which now features information highlighting the significant impact and contribution of Native Americans to our region’s history. Additionally, as part of our lecture series, we featured The Belgian Connection: Belgium’s Influence Abroad and in the Quad Cities, presented by the Honorary Consul of Belgium in Moline. This presentation explored the impact of Belgian immigrants (another notable immigrant group in the region) on the Quad Cities and their broader influence beyond the region. We also annually host a variety of folk art workshops to teach traditional methods of craft such as the Ukrainian art of pysanky egg decorating.

2. Promote Equity: We strive to create an environment where everyone has equal access to our resources, programs, and opportunities. This includes equitable hiring practices and the ongoing assessment of our policies to eliminate systemic barriers.

3. Enhance Accessibility: We are dedicated to making the GAHC+M welcoming and accessible to all visitors. Our initiatives include (but are not limited to) providing ASL tours, accessible alternatives to our walking tours that ensure inclusive participation, sensory kits, and bilingual resources, ensuring that everyone can engage with our mission and heritage. Additional initiatives involve providing financial accessibility to the museum; this includes participation/membership in Museums for All (which provides free or reduced admission to those receiving food assistance), Blue Star Museums (which offers free admission to active duty military personnel) and free museum entry offered on select days and months throughout the year.

4. Cultivate Inclusion: We believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. We actively engage with our community to build meaningful partnerships, ensuring diverse voices are not only represented but celebrated within our institution. We have partnered with the following institutions in order to foster such inclusion: LULAC (The League of United Latin American Citizens of Iowa), the Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities, World Relief Quad Cities, Tapestry Farms, and Immigration Coalition.

5. Educate and Advocate: As a cultural center and museum, we have a responsibility to educate our community about the complexities of immigration and cultural identity. We  advocate for DEAI principles within our organization and the broader museum field, recognizing that our actions must align with our values.

By embedding DEAI into the core of our operations, we aim to create a space where all individuals can connect with and contribute to the rich narrative of our shared cultural history. We are committed to continuous learning and growth in our DEAI efforts, ensuring that they reflect the evolving needs of our community.

Together, we strive to build a future where diversity is celebrated, equity is pursued, accessibility is prioritized, and inclusion is a reality for all.