Fellow Contribution | A Song for TheMuseumsLab

After taking part in TheMuseumsLab 2025 programme — from Berlin’s thought-provoking sessions to the inspiring energy in Addis Ababa — I felt deeply moved by the spirit of debate, collaboration, and unity that defined our journey. Out of this experience, I created a spoken word piece titled “MuseumsLab Hymn – Debate and Unity.”

This piece captures the essence of our shared reflections on colonialism, restitution, and the future of museums. It’s a rhythmic, reggae-inspired spoken word — contemplative yet assertive — celebrating the diversity, passion, and solidarity that TheMuseumsLab stands for. It’s my humble artistic tribute to this transformative journey and to everyone who made it possible. Thank you again for creating such an inspiring platform for exchange, dialogue, and creativity.

“MuseumsLab Hymn – Debate and Unity” by Alioune Samb

Lyrics:

Intro

From Berlin to Addis, the journey was long,

We came with questions, we’re leaving with song.

Different voices, but side by side,

Debates and visions, our common guide.

Verse 1 – Berlin

Cold streets of Berlin, but spirits on fire,

In Humboldt’s halls, we questioned the empire.

Naturkunde shadows, archives in pain,

We asked who speaks, who holds the chain.

The nights were heavy, yet joy found its way,

Too many potatoes — we laughed every day!

Verse 2 – The debates

Around the tables, our voices clashed,

Ideas collided, perspectives smashed.

From restitution to who owns the past,

The debates were fierce, but respect held fast.

We argued, we shouted, but always with care,

Because truth is a burden we all must share.

Verse 3 – Addis Ababa

Addis was rising, Meskel fire,

Pan-African spirit, lifting higher.

Fendika nights, jazz and dreams,

Unity born from passionate streams.

Differences turned to visions so bright,

Debates by day, and music by night.

Verse 4 – Nations unite

From Senegal to Germany, Ghana to Spain,

Nigeria and Austria, one burning flame.

Uganda and France, Ethiopia and Greece,

Cameroon, Poland — the rhythm won’t cease.

Namibia, Zimbabwe, Italy, UK,

Gambia and Estonia — one love today.

Bridge – Gratitude

Thanks to DAAD, for opening the way,

TheMuseumsLab team, we bless you each day.

Partners and fellows, with passion and tears,

We’ll carry this fire for many more years.

Final refrain

MuseumsLab vibes, one flame, one song,

Stories contested, but we belong.

Arguments burning, yet hearts align,

One love, one vision, your voice and mine.

One love, one voice, one family strong,

TheMuseumsLab — forever our song.