Canada: Day 1

May 21st, 2016 - Aug 14th, 2016

Discover Canada: Day 1

Explore First Steps, First Impressions and First Experiences as a Newcomer to Canada

The immigration experience is marked by firsts. The first day in a new country takes shape with an individual’s first steps, first impressions and first experiences. Come explore immigrants’ diverse personal Day 1 experiences, from Confederation to present day. Visit the bilingual exhibition Canada: Day 1 from May 21st to August 14th, 2016 at the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery.

Newcomers’ unique and shared experiences—across time and cultures—are highlighted in a thoughtful way through oral histories, archival images, original artworks, objects and your participation. Explore Day 1 through the themes of Transitions, Arrival, Encounters, Finding Your Way and Reflections. You will be transported back to your first day in Canada, or inspired to imagine yourself in a newcomer’s shoes.

Your Canada: Day 1 experience goes beyond the exhibition. Through community outreach programs and learning opportunities in local schools, Canada: Day 1 is sure to spark ongoing conversations and further reflections on collective Canadian identity. 

Canada: Day 1 is a travelling exhibition produced by the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 as a legacy project of our nation’s 150th anniversary in 2017 and supported by RBC Foundation.

OPENING RECEPTION on Sunday, May 29th, 2016 from 2-4pm. We will have music, diverse entertainment and refreshments with remarks at 2:10pm.

July 17, 2016, 1-4pm: Welcome to Red Deer Event! Howdy Partner! Join us in welcoming all newcomers to Red Deer. Whether you are a seasoned local or a new arrivee to our city come down to experience a western themed party! This family friendly event will feature: A Western Band - Country Friends, Western Games, Crafts, Free Bandanas (limited quantities) and Pancakes!

  • Baggage room 2, 1963 (detail). Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 (DI2013.838.1)

    The Thiessen family at Pier 21 in Halifax, September 17, 1950. Because they could not speak English they wore destination tags that indicated where they were going. Credit: Thiessen family upon arrival, 1950. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier  21 (DI2013.848.2)

    Newcomers aboard a train after arriving at Pier 21. This image is part of a photographic series documenting Italian and Greek immigrants by Ken Elliott, 1963.
    Credit: Immigrants on train, 1963. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 [DI2013.838.2]

 

              

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada for programming, marketing and exhibition costs related to hosting Canada: Day 1.

 

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