Late Night Host John Oliver Tackles Cultural Racketeering

Last Week Tonight Segment Raises Awareness on Antiquities Trafficking and the History of Bad Behavior from Some of the World's Leading Museums

"Our main story tonight concerns antiquities..." John Oliver began the October 2 episode of Last Week Tonight. What followed was a in-depth look exploration of cultural racketeering, the history of colonial loot, museum justifications, and the art market.

Don't have 40 minutes? Tune into the 16:00 minute mark for a great comedy sketch on provenance with a cameo from our Executive Director Tess Davis. Check in at in again at the 26:00 minute mark, as John Oliver reminds us that antiquities trafficking is not a white-collar, victimless crime, citing a past Antiquities Coalition op-ed. And, don't miss the final five minutes which introduces The Payback Museum.

Want to learn more? Read the highlighted AC Op-Ed:

Website preview
Buyer Beware: US Market for Ancient Asian Art Still the Wild, Wild East
Cultural treasures stolen from conflict zones continue to pop up for sale in the United States and elsewhere.
thediplomat.com

Saw the clip of Tess Davis? Watch the full video:

Loved the Payback Museum skit? Follow @paybackmuseum on Twitter, a parody account that will share more about plundered treasures and the issue of cultural racketeering worldwide.

About The Antiquities Coalition

To protect our shared heritage and global security, the Antiquities Coalition is leading the international campaign against cultural racketeering, the illicit trade in ancient art and artifacts. We champion better law and policy, foster diplomatic cooperation, and advance proven solutions with public and private partners worldwide. We are working towards a future when the past is preserved for the next generation, not looted, smuggled, and sold to finance crime, conflict, and terror.

Contact

theantiquitiescoalition.org