Monday, March 26, 2012

SAFE: Keeping its Own Secrets Safe?

Saving Antiquities for Everyone (SAFE) has relaunched its website: http://www.savingantiquities.org/

But the snazzy graphics can't hide the fact that the website tells little about who really runs the operation or how it is financed.

There is a ghostly drop down menu under "about us," but it is difficult to access.

After a few tries, I was able to access this page entitled, "Who is Safe?"

http://www.savingantiquities.org/about/who/

And though they state,

"We do not represent or advocate for any particular profession, or academic discipline. We call for open discussions that examine practices and behavior that destroy cultural heritage. We have no “special interest” at stake except for the future of our past."

I beg to differ based on their advocacy program which seems to mark SAFE as merely an adjunct of the AIA.

And who exactly funds SAFE?

Is it solely funded on small donations of individuals, or are there any direct or indirect governmental funders?

An organization that regularly demands transparency from private collectors and dealers should do a better job of providing some basic information about itself.

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