Researchers gather in China for Workshop on Making the Past Current: The Role of Dark Heritage in Narrating Places

Published on

A photo of Barry Godfrey and Jiajun Xu
Professor Barry Godfrey and Jiajun Xu, a local historian in Shanghai.

SUZHOU, CHINA – On September 8th, the Suzhou Campus of Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) hosted an innovative workshop titled 'Making the Past Current: The Role of Dark Heritage in Narrating Places and Identities'. This event was organised by the Department of Urban Planning and Design at the Design School, XJTLU, in collaboration with the Department of Sociology, Social Policy, and Criminology at the School of Law and Social Justice, University of Liverpool.

For most, heritage represents what we inherit from the past and what we pride ourselves on in the present. However, in recent years, a growing awareness has emerged regarding the darker aspects of our heritage. Sites marred by warfare, atrocity, genocide, colonisation, or punishment, though overlooked by traditional notions of ‘heritage’, hold stories that are essential for understanding our pasts.

The workshop brought together leading researchers and historians who have dedicated their life’s work to dark heritage. Through a profound examination of case studies from around the world, the event aimed to uncover the intricate ways in which these sites are intertwined with our collective memory, shedding light on the complexities of history and identity.

Professor Barry Godfrey, Professor of Social Justice, and Dr Katherine Roscoe, Lecturer in Criminology, were in attendance from the University of Liverpool. Professor Godfrey highlighted the complexity of different identities and their representation in history, particularly how dark heritage narratives can continue to wield oppressive power even after their use is discontinued.

Prof Barry Godfrey explained how the Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin was transformed into a national monument

Professor Barry Godfrey explained how the Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin was transformed into a national monument. Photo by Mengchuan Liu.

Dr Roscoe presented on 'diversifying heritage narratives in the post-convict era: Cockatoo Island Prison, Sydney (1839-69),' in a thought-provoking exploration of the evolving narratives surrouding heritage sites. She addressed the frequent lack of alignment between fact and narrative in presenting dark heritage sites. 

The 'Making the Past Current' workshop provided a platform for scholars, researchers, and students to engage in thought-provoking discussions on the intricate relationships between dark heritage, places, and identities. It highlighted the importance of reevaluating and reimagining the narratives that shape our understanding of history and heritage.

 

Find out more