Abstract

This paper critically reviews existing models for promoting museum diversity and proposes a new comprehensive framework called the ICE (Intersectionality, Community ecosystem, and Engagement) model. The research identifies key themes and limitations in current diversity initiatives within museums through qualitative document analysis of scholarly literature, institutional documents, and news articles. These include challenges in implementing institutional transformation, the need for more nuanced approaches to representation and inclusion, the importance of evaluating diversity in museums: balancing metrics and long-term impact, and challenges in museum diversity evaluations: moving beyond surface-level metrics. The proposed ICE model addresses these limitations by integrating three core principles: intersectionality, community ecosystem thinking, and active engagement. It places intersectionality at its center to acknowledge complex, overlapping identities, views museums as part of a larger community ecosystem, and emphasizes meaningful participation from diverse groups. Key elements of the model include intersectional advisory boards, a community curator program, rotating leadership initiatives, cross-sector partnerships, a digital inclusion lab, and intersectional impact assessments. While the ICE model offers a promising framework for transforming museums into more inclusive and impactful institutions, potential implementation challenges are discussed. The paper concludes by outlining implications for museum practice and suggesting avenues for future research to evaluate the effectiveness of this intersectional, ecosystem-based approach to diversity in museums.