About the Museum
Mission and Strategic Plan
A landmark in the heart of Montreal for over 100 years, the McCord Stewart Museum bears witness to the history of Quebec’s metropolis as well as its influence in Canada and around the world, celebrating the vitality, creativity and diversity of the communities that make it up.
The Museum amplifies their voices by interpreting and disseminating the remarkable heritage under its custody: six expansive collections of 2.5 million images, objects, documents and works of art that make it one of North America’s leading museums.
In keeping with its commitment to decolonization and sustainable development, it creates stimulating exhibitions and educational, cultural and community-engagement activities that look at the social history and contemporary issues affecting its audiences through a critical and inclusive lens, inspiring them to take action for a fairer society.
A Museum that mirrors a city; a city that mirrors the world
Achievements and themes that propel Montreal onto the global stage. An openness to the world and to issues important to Montrealers.
An intelligent Museum that stirs reflection
A current take on today’s issues, achievements and topics.
Contemporary and interactive; immersive experiences
A museum that extends outside its own walls: to the streets, the schools and beyond.
Strategic Plan for 2022-2027
Audiences’ needs have changed. They want their museum to better reflect their current social concerns and to present their stories in an inclusive and critical manner through its collections and programs. Visitors expect a museum that is participatory, audience-centred and environmentally sustainable, and that fosters dialogue and exchange.
It became clear that to remain relevant the Museum must take account of changes occurring in society, which increasingly emphasize the importance of acknowledging the consequences of colonialism and of participating actively in the reconciliation process with First Peoples. There is also a need to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and to play an active role in protection of the environment.
Based on these observations, this five-year strategic plan was developed.
This plan outlines the mission that the McCord Stewart Museum team is committed to, with the conviction that it will meet the aspirations of a diverse audience and contribute to a greater engagement towards social justice.