Can we take politics out of museums?

Museums have often been viewed as the trusted custodians of collective memories and shared heritage. However, as they choose the stories they tell, the items they collect, the sponsorship they accept, and whether they should repatriate from collections, museums are making political decisions. Should they try to be impartial, or should they become places of activism?

What are their ethical responsibilities to the people they claim to represent? How can museums build trust with diverse communities? If museums want to be places for open debate, are there limits on what can be discussed?