Month: June 2023

Immigrant Story: New Exhibit at Richmond Hill Public Library

A new inspirational art installation at Central Branch that delves into the immigrant experience with stories of strength, courage, sacrifice, and hope.

The Immigrant Story Exhibit runs from June 27 – August 23, 2023 at the Central Branch of Richmond Hill Public Library (photo by Peter Wilson)

Richmond Hill is an incredibly diverse City of individuals from all over the world that help contribute to our community in so many ways. Immigrants play a vital role in the development of our country and in the broadening of our lived experiences. Come and immerse yourself in these compelling stories.

A sampling of the large display panels located in the 3rd Floor Event Room at Central Library (photo by Peter Wilson)

Sholom Wargon developed the art installation through large-print story panels in a newspaper-style layout. The rich diversity of immigrant stories from various perspectives and cultural backgrounds will resonate with many in the York Region community.

The exhibition at Central Branch runs until August 23. Central Branch is located at 1 Atkinson Street (near the corner of Yonge Street and Major Mackenzie Drive).

The exhibit contains a large variety of photographs and documents that help tell these amazing stories. (photo by Peter Wilson

Learn more about The Immigrant Story and its creator, Sholom Wargon by visiting the exhibit’s official site at https://immigrantstory.ca/.

This is an exhibit worth multiple visits so stop by today.

Upcoming Meeting Monday, June 19, 2023 – How Has Richmond Hill Changed Since 1914?

June 19, 2023 – 6:30 pm* NOTE earlier start time!

How Has Richmond Hill Changed Since 1914?
Speaker: Cynthia Bettio, Our Lady Queen of the World Catholic Academy

Cynthia Bettio, Department Head of Canadian and World Studies at Our Lady Queen of the World Catholic Academy will be joining us with students from her Grade 10 history class to discuss the findings of their term-long project: How has Richmond Hill changed since 1914?

This is a project that came out of a keen interest in micro-history. Typically, students are instructed in the mega-narratives of this country’s history. When students are only instructed in these mega-narratives, they can sometimes miss out on the nuanced stories that impact regular, everyday citizens. This project focuses on the importance of place and how these places change over time. Through intense research and a key partnership with the Local History Room at the RHPL, students have been working on tracking how a lot in Richmond Hill has changed over time, throughout the turbulent 20th Century and into the early 21st Century. Students are using the RHPL Local Library Room with the support of Peter Wilson, Local History Librarian, in conducting their research.

Ms. Bettio will talk about the project and will be joined by her students to discuss their findings.

NOTE: This meeting will be starting at 6:30 pm and will also include an opportunity for everyone to mingle and enjoy a variety of refreshments and treats.

Join us for what promises to be a great meeting. Guest fee is $5 at the door, or consider joining the Society for $25 for the entire year. For more details, visit our Membership page.