Ismaili.NET - Heritage F.I.E.L.D.

2007, December 1:Time: 9:30 a.m., Date: Saturday, December 1st, 2007, Place: Mershon Hall, Atlanta Botanical Gardens, 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 . The Atlanta Botanical Gardens is hosting a panel-discussion on the theme 'Restoration and Preservation of Historic Sites - More Than Mere Beautification'.We are indeed very privileged to be able to host Mr. Cameron Rashti, Director of the Historic Cities Program at AKTC, who will be flying in from Geneva to chair the discussion. Joining him on the panel will be architectural preservationist Jack H. Pyburn. The following quote by His Highness the Aga Khan best conveys the link between conservation and revitalization of historic sites, and is the underpinning philosophy of the AKTC's Historic Cities Program - 'From Afghanistan to Zanzibar, from India to Mali, the [Aga Khan Trust for Culture's] support to historic communities demonstrates how conservation and revitalisation of the cultural heritage - in many cases the only asset at the disposal of the community - can provide a springboard for social development. We have also seen how such projects can have a positive impact well beyond conservation, promoting good governance, the growth of civil society, a rise in incomes and economic opportunities, greater respect for human rights and better stewardship of the environment.' We expect a lively and thought-provoking discussion on the merits and relevance of preservation, and look forward to seeing you there. The panel-discussion will be followed by a reception and a guided tour of the exhibition.