INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM MONTH

The South African Museums Association (SAMA) and its members around the country celebrate International Museum Month and International Museum Day on 18 May 2023.

The International Council of Museums (ICOM) established International Museum Day in 1977 to increase public awareness of the role of museums in the development of society. Every year on 18 May, participating museums plan creative events and activities related to the International Museum Day theme, engage with the public and highlight the importance of the role of museums as institutions that serve society and its development. The 2023 theme for International Museum Day is “Museums, Sustainability, and Well-being”. On International Museum Day 2023, we will explore the role of museums as key contributors to the well-being and sustainable development of our communities.

Museums are trusted institutions and important threads in our shared social fabric. They are uniquely placed to create a cascading effect to foster positive change. There are many ways in which museums can contribute to achieving sustainable development goals: from supporting climate action and fostering inclusivity to tackling social isolation and improving mental health.