Heritage management is one of the most important things that the world must do
so that our ancestors may not be forgotten. Heritage management, protection,
preservation and safeguarding are one of the many actions that states do to preserve
their heritage. Moreover, the engagement of local communities is a must, as their direct
involvement encourages inclusion and democratic decision-making, and it gives the
people the tools to be in charge of their history, thus building a sense of ownership. This
paper will discuss the value of community involvement in heritage preservation as well as
how many nations throughout the world have embraced democratic, inclusive, and
people-centric approaches to legacy management.
There are 3 reasons on why community participation is crucial in preserving our
heritage. The first reason would be that the community has the deepest connection to
their own heritage. By involving them on the process, you are giving that particular local
community a mission in where they would want to preserve this heritage for future
generations to come. The second reason would be that these local communities know
what is best for the particular piece of heritage. Arguably being most exposed to these
pieces of heritage, incorporating their information about the selected heritage makes it
possible to protect genuine cultural traditions and prevent the imposition of outside
viewpoints that might not accurately reflect the importance of the property. The third
reason would be that community participation calls for sustainable development. By
taking to consideration the well being of the people, local participation in decision-making
guarantees that measures for economic and tourism growth are balanced with those for
cultural and environmental preservation, enhancing the community's long-term gains.
Next, the paper shall now gives examples of success stories where in community
participation actually contributed to the preservation of heritage sites around the world.
The first case study would be about Australia’s Indigenous Protected Areas. Boasting a
inclusive approach, Australia has successfully convinced both urban citizens and
indigenous people to make an effort in preserving their heritage, while respecting the
rights and sovereignty of Indigenous communities while contributing to biodiversity
conservation. Examples of indigenous protected areas include Mount Willoughby and
Framlingham Forest, to name a few. The second case study would be about Mexico’s
Community Museums. By building neighborhood museums that represent local
viewpoints, Mexico has adopted a democratic paradigm for managing its cultural assets.
The Community Museum of Zitlala, which is devoted to the history and culture of the
Nahua people, is one illustration. Community people were involved in the creation of the
museum through preservation, interpretation, and curatorial judgments. By doing this, the
museum acts as a place that promotes intergenerational learning and conversation while
celebrating the community's legacy.
The third and final case study would be Bhutan’s approach to cultural heritage.
Focusing on the Gross National Happiness, the Bhutanese government ensures that local
communities have a say when it comes to safeguarding cultural heritage. Their program
involves communities in customary ceremonies, arts, and crafts. Bhutan guarantees the
continuation of its rich cultural traditions while building a feeling of pride and identity
among its people by encouraging the transfer of knowledge from elders to young.
To conclude, community participation is a must so that heritage preservation can
be met. Involving the community in cultural heritage has many advantages such as
increased motivation, proper knowledge of the cultural site, and more. This is evident in
the case studies discussed, as Bhutan, Australia and Mexico all have had success in
involving their communities in heritage management. Lastly, accepting community
engagement and inclusion becomes even more important in a globalized world when
heritage confronts several dangers. To embrace people-centric policies and projects that
respect the distinctive identities and aspirations of each culture, governments, heritage
organizations, and communities must work together. We can only preserve the rich
cultural legacy of the planet for future generations by such concerted efforts.