Current Exhibit: They Left a Legacy

What does it mean to leave a legacy? The individuals featured here today led varied lives. Some lived through trying times in their home country of Poland—war, hunger, forced labour, loss. Some came to Canada alone, others with loved ones. Some arrived as children, and others as adults.

All of them share the experience of leaving behind their home and starting a very different life in Winnipeg. In this new environment, each one took fragments of their old lives— language, craft, food, faith, dance, culture, memory, ways of being and knowing—and wove them into their new surroundings, connecting with others to find—and create—community.

Each in their own way identified something missing or needed, and then worked to fill the void. Through time, effort, and dedication, they built both figurative and literal spaces for community to exist, connect, and thrive. They established organizations, programs, and events. They altered the built environment, leaving a physical mark of their presence. They also built a foundation, allowing those who followed to find belonging and meaning.

Our exhibit is open and admission is free!