Akwesasne Museum Cultural Center Re-Opens August 3rd
By Mahlon Smoke
Since March of this year the Akwesasne Cultural Center has been closed to the public. Many exhibits untouched, yet taken care of by the staff, cleaning the display glass and making sure everything was set to reopen. Once reopened - there will be many changes to how things will be run and how many people will be able to enter the building at any given time. A staff member will take the temperature of everyone entering the museum and their contact number will be taken. Once inside the guests will be asked to maintain social distancing as they explore or follow the guided tour. Guests will follow markings on the floor to better help the flow of traffic and make sure people stand at a safe six feet distance apart. Most importantly all guests must wear a mask before they enter and be sure not to touch anything for the safety of others.
The Museum Coordinator, Sheree Bonaparte was more than happy to offer appointed tours for anyone who wished to do so, this was to give a dry run on how the new changes to the museum will go for future guests.
"We are lucky in here because of the building's air ventilation and cooling system so it won't be hot when we're wearing the masks" said Bonaparte as she gave a quick rundown of everything that will change within the museum.
Other than following CDC rules for keeping people safe, the Museum will also start circulating displays and return some of the items to their owners while allowing others to display their work.
Bonaparte and staff are also preparing for school children on field trips to the museum. Due to the need for smaller groups, the staff are considering having activities for school children in one small group while the other group is touring the museum. This way they can accommodate the large groups that come through the museum during the Fall. For the general public and beginning in August, groups of six will be allowed into the museum with two per person within in each exhibit. The new feature of the VR helmet has been removed due to safety and keeping the equipment sanitized.
Like many businesses, the Museum's top priority is the safety and health of their guests. Taking every step cautiously so they can to re-open their services. The museum staff is also working on how to begin classes, again with minor adjustments. The official opening will begin August 3rd and the staff of the Akwesasne Cultural Museum looks forward to seeing guests.
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