Rewriting Time – BC/AD vs BCE/CE

How should museums label time—and what do those choices mean?

This Public Assembly invites you to explore the use of BC/AD (Before Christ/Anno Domini) versus BCE/CE (Before Common Era/Common Era) in museum interpretation and displays.

Date systems are more than neutral markers—they reflect cultural, historical, and religious perspectives. In this session, we’ll discuss:

• The origins and meanings of both systems
• The role of museums in promoting understanding and inclusivity
• How we can present dates in a respectful, consistent, and thoughtful way

Your input will help shape how Hereford Museum & Art Gallery uses date systems as part of its redevelopment—ensuring the way we talk about time reflects the values of our communities.

This is part of Public Assemblies—a series of open discussions inviting local voices into the future of the museum.