Roald Dahl has been condemned by his museum for what the charity called the “undeniable racism” of a children’s book author, reports Breaking News.
The Roald Dahl Museum issued a statement saying its staff had received anti-Semitism training and would work to combat racism by “being more welcoming, inclusive, diverse and equitable”.
The Dahl family and Roald Dahl Story Company apologized for his comments in December 2020.
Dahl wrote Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The BFG, The Witches, and Fantastic Mr. Fox, all of which have been adapted into films, and his stories continue to be read by children around the world.
On its website, the Roald Dahl Museum writes: “The Roald Dahl Museum condemns all racism directed at any group or individual. Roald Dahl’s racism is undeniable and indelible but what we hope can also endure is the potential of Dahl’s creative legacy to do some good,” reports Breaking News.
The charity said it was working with a number of Jewish organisations, including the Board of Deputies of British Jewry, the Jewish Leadership Council, the Community Security Trust and the Anti-Semitism Policy Trust, to develop resources for schools.
It will contain free educational materials for primary school students that will encourage them to look at the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) through the lens of Dahl.
The leader of the Council of Deputies, Marie van der Zyl, “welcomed” the museum’s statement and also posted the statement on the wall of a building in Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire.
Ms van der Zyl said: “The new statements – in their entrance gallery and on their website – are an important starting point with regard to providing the full story about a man whose works are enjoyed by millions. I look forward to working with the museum more closely to explore further ways to raise awareness on this issue and educate about anti-Jewish hate,” reports Breaking News.
A spokesperson for Antisemitism Policy Trust said: “We welcome this action from the museum and are pleased that it intends to pursue anti-racism education. We trained staff and trustees, working closely with the museum leadership, and have enjoyed positive and constructive conversations,” reports Breaking News.
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