Who deserves to be in a museum? For too long, the answer has been "the extraordinary" -- those aspirational historymakers who inspire us with their successes. But those stories are limiting, says museum curator Ariana Curtis. In a visionary talk, she imagines how museums can more accurately represent history by honoring the lives of people both extraordinary and everyday, prominent and hidden -- and amplify diverse perspectives that should have always been included.

Ariana Curtis: Museums should honor the everyday, not just the extraordinary

Museums should honor the everyday, not just the extraordinary

Challenging the focus on the extraordinary, it's proposed that museums honor everyday women to reflect real, diverse histories.

Despite women comprising 60% of museum staff, leadership remains predominantly white and male, highlighting a dire need for diversity.

The Smithsonian's embrace of Latinx and women's narratives showcases the impact of inclusive storytelling in shaping our cultural heritage.