These meetings, which have included roundtables and visits to locations in all four nations, have focused on various aspects of the memorialisation programme, covering both the design of the permanent memorial and broader themes for the legacy programme. Participants have included historians and academics, such as Dame Mary Beard; environmental experts such as Tony Juniper (Chair of Natural England); figures from the world of arts like Andrew Ellis (Chief Executive of Art UK); digital artists such as Doddz; and experts in heritage and the built environment such as Professor Elizabeth McKellar and Sir Charles Saumarez Smith. Dame Mary Beard shared, “It is tremendously important to create a memorial to the Queen that is appropriate, relevant and in some way makes a difference. It was fascinating and fun to be part of generating ideas, hearing what others had to say, from the feasible to the blue sky’’.
These sessions have generated valuable insights and lively debate, and have been invaluable in helping the Committee in creating memorial projects that will resonate with people both locally and globally. Digital Artist, Doddz commented, “It was an honour to participate in such an important discussion about how digital elements can enhance Queen Elizabeth II’s memorial. The roundtable highlighted the power of digital tools to connect past, present, and future generations, creating emotional and meaningful experiences for all.”
The Committee has also been committed to engaging closely with young people of various ages and backgrounds to ensure they have the opportunity to help shape the Committee’s recommendations. Representatives from #IWill and the National Citizen Service were invited to engagement sessions where they provided valuable input on how future generations might interact with Queen Elizabeth’s legacy.
Young Ambassadors from the National Citizen Service, commented, “I was honoured to participate in this significant decision-making process, and look forward to seeing its long-term impact on helping the next generation understand the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II” and that “involving young people in these conversations can help bridge the generational gap and develop something meaningful for all age groups.”
Lord Janvrin and the Committee will continue to meet with various groups in the coming months as they refine their ideas for commemorating Queen Elizabeth II. If you have an idea you would like to share with them, please contact the committee at queenelizabethmemorial@cabinetoffice.gov.uk
