r/Glasgow Tools

Full statement "*Many people have contacted us about the #BlackLivesMatter movement and have asked us about street names and statues. We recognise the need to confront Glasgow’s history and understand many of you desire action. We hear you, Glasgow.

Last year, we launched a major academic study into the city’s colonial history and links to transatlantic slavery - the first of its kind in the UK.

Among other things, this study is looking at;

🔸 Financial bequests made to the former Town Council – & how they influenced the modern city
🔸 Statues, street names & buildings
🔸 The role of city fathers, including former Lord Provosts
🔸 As well as a question of reparation

Once this study is complete, we’ll begin a conversation with the city about what it means for us all & what we should do next.

This may take some time but we want to fully understand Glasgow’s past & its impact on our community today, so we can move forward as the welcoming, progressive & inclusive city we know it to be.

We’ve saved as many placards as we can from the #BLM protest and will look at how to display these. And the appointment of a specialist curator in Glasgow Life will allow us to develop a strategy for the interpretation of slavery and empire in Glasgow Museums.

We’ll keep you updated on this, but we ask you to please not be destructive - We’re committed to challenging & tackling racism & inequality in our city, & will use this study to carve a meaningful, inclusive & positive course of action to address the legacies of our city’s past.*"