The AIDS Memorial Quilt as Radical Public History Academic Article uri icon

Abstract

  • Radical public history relies on reflective practices that include formal and experientially acquired knowledge within a broad interdisciplinary framework. We engage The AIDS Memorial Quilt as an example of radical public history in action. Using material culture methodologies from history and anthropology, we recount the history and meaning of the Quilt and share quantitative survey results reflecting the responses of collegians to six Quilt blocks displayed with supplemental informational banners. Embracing a core pillar of radical public history – shared authority – our authors include academics and non-academic community partners whose lived experience and expertise is critical to this movement and this paper.

Publication Date

  • 2024-11-01