GEM is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Professor Sir Geoff Palmer OBE,  a leading figure in social sciences, human rights and education. Sir Geoff’s life was dedicated not only to groundbreaking scientific discovery, but to challenging injustice and promoting inclusion through education. His powerful advocacy has made a positive, transformative impact on museums, heritage organisations, and learning professionals across the UK and beyond.
We were honoured to welcome Sir Geoff as the keynote speaker at our GEM Conference 2022 in Derby. With characteristic warmth, clarity and conviction, he reminded us that: “We can’t change the past, but we can change consequences, such as racism, through education.” In his keynote, he shared how he came to understand the history of slavery through the everyday object of a sugar bowl, not just as a beautiful item, but as something that represents the sugar it held, produced by people who were enslaved to make it. Through this powerful story, he challenged us to confront challenging histories through heritage learning.
Sir Geoff taught us that education has the power not only to inform, but to heal and transform. He believed passionately in the role of museums and cultural organisations as places where our difficult past can be explored honestly, and where empathy can be nurtured. His wisdom and courage continue to inspire our work as we strive to support accessible, inclusive and engaging cultural learning for all.
We extend our deepest condolences to Sir Geoff’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of working with him. His legacy will live on in the work of educators and communities who, like him, believe that change is possible.