LEXINGTON, Kentucky – In response to the devastating impacts of recent disasters, including the 2021 tornadoes and the 2022 floods that affected several areas of the state, the Kentucky arts and humanities community has initiated a proactive approach to protect cultural heritage.
The Kentucky Heritage Emergency Response Network (KHERN) was officially launched in September, uniting various organizations and artists at the national, state, and local levels. This network aims to facilitate the rapid restoration of art and cultural artifacts following a natural disaster or any damaging event.
KHERN received a financial boost with a $25,000 grant from the Performance Arts Readiness project through the Mellon Foundation. The initiative is offered at no cost to artists and organizations wishing to join, enabling them to access vital resources in the event of an emergency.
According to Leah Hamilton, lead administrator of KHERN and assistant professor at the University of Kentucky, the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters underscores the necessity of this network. “Having this response network in place is critical. We can help organizations plan for emergencies but, more importantly, we’re ready to assist if a disaster occurs,” Hamilton stated.
In the aftermath of such calamities, the immediate focus typically addresses basic needs such as food, water, and shelter. However, Hamilton highlights the significant role of cultural preservation. Notable institutions like Appalshop in Whitesburg and the Hindman Settlement School in Knott County, both of which experienced damage during the 2022 floods, serve as reminders of the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage.
“This goes beyond mere objects; it’s an integral part of our region’s identity,” Hamilton remarked, emphasizing the importance of passing down stories and heritage to future generations.
The network provides a critical lifeline for individuals and organizations affected by disasters. It assists in documenting damage and initiating restoration efforts. In some cases, experts may be sent directly to affected locations to coordinate recovery and preservation efforts.
Furthermore, training programs are available for artists and cultural organizations on disaster preparedness and post-disaster clean-up. Ruth Bryan, university archivist for UK Libraries Special Collections, noted, “Preserving our past is essential to our humanity. We need to have these plans to avoid losing part of who we are.”
Additionally, KHERN will offer guidance in the preservation of government and legal documents, crucial for maintaining historical integrity and operational systems within communities. Bryan stated, “Our vital records underpin our legal and financial systems. Without them, everything falls apart.”
As the cultural landscape of Kentucky faces increasing threats from natural disasters, KHERN aims to provide both immediate and long-term support, ensuring that the state’s rich heritage endures for generations to come.
