In 2021, CultureLink initiated the Women of Courage Project. Funded by Department of Canadian Heritage and partnered with the Toronto History Museums, this is a community-building program for racialized immigrant women. The artist participants have been reflecting on themes such as identity, migration, and their struggles and wins in Canada. Personal and intimate narratives are spun through digital media and other art forms. Their journeys will move, inspire, and uplift you. Listen to their stories.
On Sunday February 19th, CultureLink Settlement and Community Services, along with the City of Toronto- celebrated the launch of the Women of Courage Project Exhibition at Todmorden Mills Heritage Site. The launch event included a counsellor onsite, because the sensitive and poignant nature of the topics. There are self- care resources available at the exhibition. On the day of the launch, there were on tears from “being seen” and acknowledged. Artist Participant Guides are available to talk to museum visitors about their experience and submissions on Saturdays and Sundays.
A Message from our CEO:
“Attending the opening of the Women of Courage project at Todmorden Mills was a moving experience from both the perspective as CultureLink’s CEO and as a racialized immigrant women myself. It was a powerful opportunity for us to reflect on our shared experiences and the emotions brought forth – a way to establish connections.
I could relate to many of the stories and believe the feelings expressed are universal, crossing the boundaries of time and place, despite coming from different backgrounds. In some way, we are all these women. In the gallery, I saw how these stories sparked both conversation and reflection.
My feeling is this project has made an impact and a difference; hearing the stories, watching the videos, reading the narratives, and watching the women come together with a sense of confidence and purpose was emotional and touching. These are empowered women, bold and unapologetic women, connected women, women who are ready to face anything. These really are Women of Courage.”
– Jemima Sabapathy, Chief Executive Officer
Visit the Women of Courage Exhibition:
February 15 – March 12 at Todmorden Mills Heritage Site
March 15 – April 19 at Scarborough Museum
April 12 – May 7 at Gibson House Museum
May 10 – June 4 at Montgomery’s Inn