“Microscopic, Revolutionary Acts”: Participatory Action Research as a Form of Activism in the University Museum

ABSTRACT

This co‐authored paper reflects on participatory action research as a form of activism in a university museum. Motivated by social justice, our enquiries build on long‐established learning programming to develop more collaborative and equitable approaches to knowledge creation and practice in museums. Initiated through a series of reflective conversations, we examine our entangled positionalities as practitioner researchers and how our approach is shaped by both the values and multidisciplinary perspectives we bring and by our community co‐researchers. We consider the ethical tensions of participatory research and practice and reflect on the challenges and opportunities inherent in this relational, careful and response‐able work. We conclude by suggesting that, in an era of unprecedented social, economic and political polarization, participatory action research can generate “microscopic revolutionary acts” that enable museums to become more inclusive, relevant and socially connected institutions, bringing diverse communities together and fostering change through dialogue, empathy and mutual understanding.