Change is one constant that neither people nor places can avoid. So too for our beloved cultural institutions such as the Galt Museum & Archives and Fort Whoop-Up. The opportunity to review the trajectory of these organizations began in early 2021 as the existing strategic plan arrived at the end of its life cycle. The Board and staff critically reflected on the services the museum and fort provide to the community and examined new opportunities. 

A committee of the Board led a rigorous public process. The committee selected Hatlie Group to lead the Galt’s Board, staff and community on a path to developing a plan that would be current, forward-looking and respectful of all the communities that we serve. Hatlie obtained feedback and contributions from nearly 200 community members and organizations during the summer and fall. Four community impact statements emerged that would chart the institution's work over the next five years. They are:

Redefining Museum — Meaning is created from challenging our traditional ways of working.

We will approach this opportunity by being leaders in the museum sector and community in challenging traditional ways of working and in establishing museum practices that responsibly serve communities and steward and share collections and stories outside of colonial frameworks and systems that create barriers for the people we serve.

Reconciliation — Actively standing in reconciliation, truth is heard and acknowledged, and respectful and healthy relationships are nurtured.

We will strive to strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities to build partnerships, expand on representation of Indigenous history guided by Indigenous voices and leadership, and continue efforts in reconciliation and decolonization of museum practices.

Gathering Place — A beautiful, safe and comfortable space where everyone feels welcome.

We will raise awareness of the Galt as the heart of the City of Lethbridge, a gathering place for visitors and community members, and a space for mutually beneficial and authentic connection.

Platform for Inclusion — Diverse voices are elevated.

We commit to building understanding, conversation - and connections between people across differences by fostering safe spaces and amplifying new stories and voices.

This is a snapshot of the journey we have begun as an institution. We invite the community to visit us at www.galtmusuem.com to learn more about our strategic plan, how we plan to reach our goals and how you can be involved.

Darin J Martens
CEO/Executive Director