You can help design Aurora's diversity wall mural to celebrate Canada's multicultural mosaic

Submit names of individuals, groups, events, landmarks that have shaped Aurora

Yorkregion.com
May 10, 2021
Lisa Queen

Do you have ideas how Aurora’s proposed diversity wall mural can celebrate diversity and strengthen the town’s sense of collective history and multicultural heritage?

If so, the town wants to hear from you.

A partnership between the town and the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force, the mural is intended to represent all ethnicities and cultures.

Residents are asked to submit names of individuals, groups, events, landmarks, foods, celebrations and more that they believe have shaped Canada and Aurora.

Share your thoughts in the Ideas section on the Engage Aurora platform at engageaurora.ca/inclusionmural by May 24 at 4 p.m.

Ideas will be considered as the town develops the artist submission guidelines.

The town is also looking for local artists to develop designs for the new mural. A call-out for artists will start in June.

“Canada is a mosaic that has been shaped by people of various ethnicities and cultures who have shared new languages, cultural practices, religions, culinary traditions and so much more,” the town said in a statement.

“Diversity is our strongest asset as a country and as a municipality. Our collective differences have led to innovation, creativity, and new ways of being and doing. Diversity and inclusion are fundamental characteristics of our society and yet we realize that more can be done to celebrate their ongoing importance to our communities.”

The mural will include the following themes:

Celebrating the accomplishments of Canadians of various ethnicities and cultures who have contributed to the building of Canada and Aurora;

Highlighting historically significant achievements made by diverse individuals from Canada’s past and present; and

Encouraging education and learning around equity, diversity, inclusion, racism, and systemic inequities.

However, there has been controversy surrounding the wall.

For example, resident Anthony Pullano sent a letter to the integrity commissioner questioning a $10,000 corporate donation for the mural from commercial developer SmartCentres.

Coun. John Gallo also asked if the donation is appropriate and he and Coun. Rachel Gilliland said the mural’s approval process was kept hidden from councillors.

Task force member Phiona Durrant has also expressed disappointment with the process and feels the mural is unnecessary.