Do people know about Canada’s place in the global refugee crisis? 

By Staff

October 24th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

Do people know about Canada’s place in the global refugee crisis?  Canada has had a mixed record in welcoming refugees

Through images, soundscapes, first person accounts and artifacts, this powerful exhibition begins “no one wants to be a refugee, anyone could become a refugee.” Moving through major waves of arrival from the Second World War era up to the present day, Refuge Canada does not shy away from opportunities to portray the darker chapters of history. Hopeful stories of optimism and success are balanced by moving accounts of shattered lives, fear, and examples of Canada’s mixed record in welcoming refugees.

The exhibition will draw visitors through its five themes: Life Before, Fear, Displacement, Refuge and Life in Canada, with hands-on opportunities to connect with the content. Crawl inside a UNHCR tent, or find room in an inflatable boat similar to those used by refugees fleeing from Turkey to Greece. Look out a plane window as the shores of Canada approach and listen to refugees tell their stories throughout the exhibit. Refuge Canada will challenge and inspire as it brings visitors on a journey from darkness to hope, always calling into question preconceptions about what it means to be a refugee.

“Canada has had a mixed record in welcoming refugees, reacting generously to some while overlooking others. Refuge Canada provides the context for Canada’s place in the global refugee crisis and brings to light the challenges faced by refugees in Canada. The exhibition also shares stories of success and contributions made by people who came to Canada as refugees. ” – Dan Conlin, Curator, Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21

As Canadians become increasingly aware of the current global refugee crisis, Refuge Canada is an opportunity to gain historical context. Refuge Canada was produced by the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.

Joseph Brant Museum is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am to 4pm. To learn more, visit museumsofburlington.ca/exhibition/refuge-canada. Thank you to our special exhibition sponsors: TD Bank and the Burlington Museums Foundation.

Film Screening: Peace by Chocolate
The award winning film “Peace by Chocolate” will be showing at Joseph Brant Museum. After the bombing of his father’s chocolate factory, a charming young Syrian refugee struggles to settle into his new Canadian small-town life, caught between following his dream to become a doctor and preserving his family’s chocolate-making legacy. Based on the internationally recognized true story. “A heartwarming tale of triumph over adversity” – Chris Knight, National Post

Tickets are $15/adult, $12/children (12 and under) and include admission to the galleries. Peace by Chocolate merchandise will be available in the Gift Shop for purchase. Doors open at 6pm to view the special exhibition “Refuge Canada”.

Film begins at 7pm, 96 minutes long. Seating is limited, visit  museumsofburlington.ca/exhibition/refuge-canada to reserve a seat.

Film Screening Dates: November 14, December 12, January 9, February 13, March 13, April 10