Bridges that Unite exhibition to be presented at Concordia University

Thought-provoking Exhibition Invites Montréalers to Explore Canada's Global Leadership Role

MONTRÉAL, March 5 /CNW Telbec/ - Bridges that Unite is set to open in Montréal next week as part of a cross-Canada tour. This interactive exhibition showcases Canada's ability to bridge the developed and the developing worlds.

Presented from March 7 to 26, in the J.W. McConnell Building Atrium at Concordia University, the exhibition invites visitors to consider Canada's role in the world through the lens of a remarkable 25-year partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in some of the world's most isolated and impoverished regions. Thought-provoking stories spanning several continents are told through powerful images, evocative soundscapes and multimedia components.

Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network, is presenting the bilingual exhibition, which provides an opportunity to share the experience of the past quarter-century and chart a way forward for Canada and the world.

Khalil Z. Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of AKFC says, "The exhibition draws on our rich experience in the developing world to spark conversations about what Canada and Canadians can do to ensure a more peaceful, prosperous and pluralist world. We are delighted to continue this important dialogue in Montréal and we look forward to teaming up with Concordia University and other key partners to present Bridges that Unite."

The exhibition provides an ideal platform for in-depth exchanges on some of the most pressing questions of the 21st century and plays host to a range of on-campus events including free film screenings, cultural events and school programs. Guides are on hand to engage with visitors and animate special activities.

"Concordia University is a natural partner for Bridges that Unite", says Judith Woodsworth, President and Vice-Chancellor of Concordia. "Our faculty members and students are engaged in a variety of development projects around the world. This commitment is a reflection of our spirit of openness and the value of social justice within our diverse community."

Bridges that Unite is presented every day, free of charge, in the J.W. McConnell Building Atrium at Concordia University, 1400 Blvd. De Maisonneuve West. (Metro: Guy-Concordia)

    
                                MEDIA PREVIEW
    

Members of the media are invited to attend a preview of the exhibit. Representatives of host organizations will be available for interviews.

WHEN: Tuesday, March 9, from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

WHERE: Atrium of the J.W. McConnell Building, Concordia University, 1400 Blvd. De Maisonneuve W.

Exhibit Highlights:

    
    March 16: University of the Streets Café
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Location: H-767, Henry F. Hall Building, Concordia University, 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd. W.

Time: 7:00 p.m.

This café event will reflect on democracy and storytelling and how we need to create an array of public spaces that give us status, legitimacy and authority to speak. How can we become knowledgeable citizens who can stand in opposition to the inequities we see around us, or imagine with others a more just and equitable society. Moderator of the event is Lance Evoy, Director of the Institute for Community Development at Concordia's School of Extended Learning.

    
    March 17: Bringing the World to Canada, Journalism Panel
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Location: H-767, Henry F. Hall Building, Concordia University, 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd. W.

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Organized in collaboration with the Department of Journalism, Concordia University, this panel discussion will explore the challenges of international journalism and the role of the media in shaping Canadians' understanding of the world. Moderated by Mike Gasher, Chair of the Department of Journalism.

    
    March 24: From Kabul to Montréal, musical performance and film screening
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Location: H-110, Henry F. Hall Building, Concordia University, 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd. W.

Time: 6:00 p.m.

This event will examine Canada's role in Afghanistan from a development perspective and explore how, with thoughtful Canadian leadership, success is possible. The evening will feature a musical performance by renowned Afghan-Canadian musician Vaheed Kaacemy and a screening of award-winning film-maker Richard Phinney's documentary on Afghanistan: Change in the Making, a Journey in Afghanistan.

The exhibition is presented with the support of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). www.acdi-cida.gc.ca

For further information: Jennifer Morrow, AKFC Manager, Communications, Telephone: [phone] ext. 107, Email: [email protected]; Fiona Downey, Concordia University - Media Relations Advisor, Telephone: [phone] ext.2518, Email: [email protected]