From the Provost's Desk: Alberta History mural project update

This article was updated on June 19, 2024.

I want to update the University of Alberta community on the ongoing Alberta History mural project, which first began in January 2021.

Since the last update to the university community in September 2023, the Alberta History Mural Project Working Group has been gathering extensive feedback from the community to determine the mural's future. At the community's request, the group has been looking into the possibilities for the mural, which include conserving it in place or removing it, among other options.

Based on the feedback received so far, the working group is holding one final, virtual engagement session on July 23 which I will host. During the session, we will provide a brief update on the project and will allow members of the community to share comments and feedback about the mural. 

I know that many people may wish to share their comments during the engagement session. To ensure everyone has an opportunity to voice their opinion in a respectful and constructive manner, we may institute time limits and a limit to the number of comments for one person. If you choose, you can also leave additional comments online until August 2, 2024.

This opportunity will be the final outreach effort by the Alberta History Mural Project Working Group. Once this session is complete, the working group will take the information away to discuss the findings from the session and all previous engagements. The working group will then provide a recommendation to the U of A’s Policy and Planning Committee, who will then bring their recommendation to my attention. In accordance with the Deaccession and Disposition of Museum Objects and Collections Procedure, I will consider and decide on the Committee’s recommendation on behalf of the Board of Governors. 

I will update you again once a decision is made. A timeline for this decision is not finalized and a decision will not be made without first considering all options and opinions.

I want to thank everyone who has shared their feedback with us so far and I look forward to leading the final engagement session on July 23.

Verna Yiu
Provost and Vice-President (Academic)