UK's Elusive COVID Memory: Unpacking the Power Dynamics Behind Commemoration
Original framing: “What the UK’s ‘day of reflection’ reveals about COVID memory” — The Conversation - Global
The challenges of commemoration in the UK are not unique to COVID-19, but rather reflect broader societal struggles with historical narrative and the influence of dominant groups. Historical parallels between COVID-19 commemoration and past pandemics, such as the Black Death, highlight the enduring power dynamics that shape our understanding of the past. By exploring these parallels, we can gain a deeper understanding of the structural causes of commemoration challenges.
The UK's 'day of reflection' reveals the complexities of collective memory and the challenges of agreeing on what to remember.
By engaging with indigenous knowledge, traditional practices, and marginalized voices, we can gain a deeper understanding of the power dynamics that shape our understanding of the past. The solution pathways of decolonizing commemoration, inclusive commemoration practices, and commemoration as a tool for social change offer valuable insights into how we can create a more just and equitable society that values the diversity of human experiences and acknowledges the ongoing impacts of power dynamics.