THE BATTLEFORDS — Do you practice your faith? Have you ever voted against the ruling government party? Do you have a university degree? Are you a member of the LGBTQ2+ community? Are you an artist, journalist, or writer? If you answered yes to any of those questions, you may be at risk of becoming a refugee.
At least according to a touring exhibition delving into Canada's history with refugees which is currently on display at the North Battleford Public Library, but only until the end of January.
"I think it highlights sort of the global issue of refugees," Colin Evans, the library's head librarian told the News-Optimist, referencing conflicts in the Ukraine and Middle East.
"People always seem to forget about refugees and immigration so I think it's a nice reminder to everyone [about] the world that we live in and how we're all interconnected even if we're in Saskatchewan on the prairies we're all connected and all humans in the world."
On loan from the Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax, the interactive display allows visitors to learn about refugees and their history in Canada, ranging from information about some group's journeys to Canada, or explaining what types of people are at risk of becoming refugees.
"I think [the exhibit] highlights ... the contributions that the refugees make in Canada, as well as the history... you can see how things change but often stay the same. History repeats itself.
Evans noted that the library was excited to be able to bring this display to the Battlefords, also noting that the library's hours help to ensure as many people can visit and learn as possible.
"I knew it would be a great opportunity to have this display reach the most amount of people possible."
