ESTEVAN - Fifteen people from the Estevan area have creatively displayed their thoughts against racism in a new exhibit at the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum (EAGM).
A reception was held at the venue on March 21 - the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The EAGM partnered with Southeast Advocates – Newcomer Services on this project.
Transition co-ordinator Ojhay Javier said he was grateful to the EAGM for partnering with Southeast Advocates and showcasing artistic talents.
"We want to [raise] awareness and educate people that Canada is a diverse country and we need to embrace that," Javier said in an interview with SaskToday. "We need to stop looking at colours of skin, and we need to welcome every culture, every person who comes to Canada, and be a welcoming community."
Initially, Southeast Advocates wanted to include photography and other art forms, but they knew taking pictures could be tricky. They had a workshop earlier in March and had participants come in to work on their art.
"We told them to express themselves and what they think about racism based on their experience and ... beliefs," said Javier.
Everybody is equal, he said, and the only race in the world is the human race.
Javier noted people from all over the world, including Canada, its Indigenous, Métis and other people, contributed to the exhibit.
The exhibit was put together quickly, as it was first promoted in early March. Javier said the EAGM has been "very accommodating".
"I'm looking forward to working with them for future collaborations," said Javier.
The exhibit is currently in the EAGM's foyer. It will be moving into Gallery No. 2 on April 11, once the current exhibit wraps up, and will remain until the end of May. Additional works will be added to the exhibit, and if anyone wants to be involved, they are invited to submit their art.
