The Alutiiq Museum's guidelines for the spiritual care of objects

An introduction to the philosophy behind collections care at the Alutiiq Museum, followed by the Museum's actual Guidelines for the Spiritual Care of Objects. The authors of this chapter highlight the idea that caring for traditional objects requires more than maintaining their physical stability. According to Alutiiq tradition, all objects are aware and sensitive to human activity, thus they must all be treated with respect. In the face of a culture that suffered colonial repression, the museum is serving as a place in which this culture's tradition can be celebrated, perpetuated, and in some cases, revived. The guidelines approach to the treatment, care, viewing and conservation of sacred objects is open-minded and flexible to varying perceptions of sacredness. At the same time, the guidelines stress both respect for the artifacts and the community from which they come.