The Royal B.C. Museum’s newly appointed interim CEO, Ry Moran, is leading significant efforts to enhance diversity and foster reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. Moran took over as the museum’s fourth CEO in 2021 following the resignation of Jack Lohman amidst allegations of racism against Indigenous staff. A subsequent internal report confirmed discriminatory behavior towards Indigenous and racialized staff at the Victoria museum.
In response, the museum closed exhibits that promoted colonial narratives, with the First Peoples Gallery remaining shuttered. Moran emphasized the importance of recognizing the need for change and persevering through challenges to combat racism effectively.
The museum, which welcomed 620,000 visitors in the 2024-25 fiscal year, is currently constructing a new archive and research building in Colwood. However, uncertainties persist regarding its long-term presence in downtown Victoria after a controversial $789 million rebuild was suspended by the province.
Efforts towards repatriation are also underway at the museum, with new staff positions created to facilitate the return of culturally significant items to Indigenous communities. Moran highlighted the importance of fostering respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples and ensuring accurate storytelling.
Additionally, a new provincial archives, research, and collections building is set to open in Colwood later this year, providing a platform for researchers and the public to explore British Columbia’s rich history. Despite a previous redesign being scrapped due to public backlash, Moran expressed a commitment to reassessing the museum’s future role in downtown Victoria.
