Memorializing Crisis: The Oklahoma City National Memorial as Renewal Discourse

Abstract

Memorials are erected to signify important people, places, and events in history. Often times, the landmarks pay homage to lives lost and locations where devastation occurred. This study analyzes the Oklahoma City National Memorial as an exemplar for how memorials, through the shared experience of grief, communicate renewal. A discussion of memorials as rhetorical artifacts is provided, the evolving literature on renewal is presented, and the mission statement and seven themes embodied in the features of the Oklahoma City National Memorial are analyzed. Ultimately, this analysis establishes that a prospective vision is essential in the memorializing process. Emphasizing shared values, finding optimism, and providing opportunities for learning are identified as practical steps toward achieving a prospective outlook.

Keywords:

• Crisis Communication
• Organizational Learning
• Renewal
• Memorial

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Shari R. Veil

Shari R. Veil is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Kentucky

Timothy L. Sellnow

Timothy L. Sellnow is a Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Kentucky

Megan Heald

Megan Heald is a graduate student in the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Oklahoma