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The Museums Act (1990) establishes the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation (CMCC) as a national institution responsible for preserving and promoting the heritage of Canada, and contributing to the collective memory and sense of identity of all Canadians. The Corporation is responsible for two museums, the Canadian Museum of Civilization and the Canadian War Museum. The Act states that a main purpose of the Corporation is "to increase, throughout Canada and internationally, interest in, knowledge and critical understanding of, and respect for human cultural achievements and human behaviour...".
To do so, we are guided by both personal and professional values in the way we conduct our relations with our colleagues and the general public. In the Museums we are responsible for making decisions that affect public trust in us as a source of reliable information. Our work is guided by five essential principles.
Knowledge
Museum activities focus on the creation and dissemination of knowledge. Our research is rigorous and creative, thereby contributing to new understanding. Our exhibitions and programmes are knowledge-based and provide clear information to the public.
Authenticity
Authenticity in our Museum means that we are truthful and comprehensive. We are committed to showing artifacts from CMCC collections and from other public collections. Authenticity involves communicating accurate information which is balanced and in context.
Coherence
Coherence applies to all our Museums’ activities as we aim to be consistent, united in purpose and easily accessible. We strive for coherence in our research, exhibitions, programmes, services and design, in our behaviour as teams, and in our use of the Museums’ physical spaces.
Choice and Respect
The collections, programmes and exhibitions administered by our Museums reflect a wide range of people and subjects. Making choices is necessary for good management: we can never include all themes, all perspectives, or all proposed artifacts. Our choices are informed by respect: we will not engage in activities or present materials which may promote intolerance.
Canadian Perspectives
Our collections, programmes and exhibitions reflect a Canadian perspective. We present Canadian contexts, comments, or reactions on subjects of wider significance. This dimension reflects the fundamental Canadian commitment to democracy in its political and social sense.
