Many Voices of Confederation at Bellevue House National Historic Site

New exhibit and programs explore history beyond Canada 150

June 14, 2017                                Kingston, Ontario                           Parks Canada Agency

This year, Bellevue House National Historic Site is the place to commemorate Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation. Parks Canada invites Canadians to discover Many Voices of Confederation through exciting new interactive activities, meaningful exhibits, art installations, and events throughout the summer at the historic home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald.

On Wednesday, June 21st, Parks Canada will officially unveil Many Voices: Indigenous art installations, along with a new suite of programs, and exhibits at Bellevue House that explore the many viewpoints related to Sir John A Macdonald’s legacy and Confederation. By working with partners, historians, and Indigenous Peoples, Many Voices will shine a different lens on this year’s events and present some varied and often unheard perspectives.

While we are celebrating Canada 150 in 2017, the history of this land and the contributions of its people present a rich tapestry and date back far beyond 150 years. Visitors to Bellevue House will be guided to reflect on Indigenous presences, histories, and contemporary realities related to Confederation. Many Voices will create the space and conversations to open up dialogue and a spirit of curiosity.  

The Many Voices: Indigenous art exhibit, curated by Tania Willard and Carina Magazzeni, features work from some of the most important and comprehensive collections of contemporary Canadian Indigenous art from the Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada Aboriginal Art Collection and from Landmarks2017 collaborators. They explore the idea that the land claims us - that wherever we are from, it is possible for us to be changed by the land around us. The art pieces are primarily located in the Visitor Centre and aim to ignite conversations about Canadian identity, history, and belonging.

Visitors will be encouraged to explore the many important milestones and controversies of Sir John A Macdonald and Confederation. Sir John A. Macdonald’s dream for Canada was a union of provinces, connected by a railway from sea to sea and the world’s first national park system. Now over 150 years later, visitors will be inspired to look at Canada 150 in a broader context and to reflect on the benefits and consequences of the creation of the independent nation called Canada. An interactive photo booth, “Imagine a Country”, will allow people to leave a thoughtful positive legacy for future generations, or simply a fun wish.

In 2017, the Government of Canada is pleased to offer free admission for all visitors to all national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas which include Bellevue House and the Many Voices exhibits. Bellevue House will be open every day until Thanksgiving. For more information about Bellevue House events, programs, and admission, visit the website.