Linda Nordling’s article, “Seeding an Anti-Racist Culture at Scotland’s Botanical Gardens,” left a lasting impression on me, it made me view and reconsider different perspectives I hadn’t previously explored. I found myself empathizing with the researchers and staff at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) as they strive to reshape their institution’s image and acknowledge the contributions of non-white Europeans. They aim to foster a more inclusive environment for both visitors and employees. Simon Milne’s statement, “We’re not rewriting history; we’re trying to tell the whole story,” Resonates deeply with our situation regarding the Missouri Botanical Gardens (MOBOT). Similarly, our goal isn’t to diminish MOBOT’s achievements or tarnish its reputation but to present a comprehensive narrative that addresses its historical legacy of colonial racism.
The mention of George Floyd’s tragic death in the article was particularly striking. While some institutions had already begun efforts to promote racial diversity and recognize the contributions of people of color before this event, Floyd’s death served as a catalyst for widespread recognition of the urgent need for change. Nordling’s intention in crafting this article was to raise awareness, and the section titled “Plants and Politics” effectively underscores the interconnectedness of plants and social dynamics. Specifically, the paragraph that emphasizes the significance of crops such as cotton, tobacco, coffee, and rubber in European endeavors of empire and slavery highlights how the exploitation of plants frequently mirrors the exploitation of individuals.
This section of the article prompted me to draw parallels with U.S. and MOBOT history. While I understood that the history of plants can convey profound stories, it wasn’t until now that I realized how certain plants are intricately tied to narratives of slavery and colonial racism. Nordling’s article serves as a powerful reminder of the intricate interplay among botanical science, history, and the pursuit of social justice, urging us to confront uncomfortable realities and strive for a future characterized by greater fairness and equality.
Bibliography:
Title- Seeding an anti-racist culture at Scotland’s botanical gardens.
Author- Linda Nordling
Subject- Botanical Gardens, diversity and inclusion, colonial racism.
Created date -9/22/22