The Right Honourable John G. Diefenbaker
Centre for the Study of Canada
Report to the Community
2013 - 2014
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FOSTERING A VISION FOR CANADA
The Right Honourable John G. Diefenbaker dreamed of a united Canada, one which would find strength
through diversity. The Diefenbaker Canada Centre’s (DCC) mandate is to build on this legacy by celebrating
citizenship, leadership, human rights and Canada’s role in the international community. In addition to preserving
and interpreting the core collection of personal artifacts bequeathed by Mr. Diefenbaker to the University of
Saskatchewan (UofS), the DCC proudly hosts exhibits that interpret the Canadian experience, with a particular
emphasis on the culture and heritage of the nation’s many peoples.
The only Prime Ministerial Centre in Canada, the DCC enriches the community’s civic and cultural knowledge
through:
e
a gallery featuring in-house researched and produced displays, as well as nationally acclaimed travelling
exhibits that bring the university and wider public together to explore topics that speak to the heart of our
mandate;
e quality educational programs that encourage youth to investigate the significance of history, rights,
freedoms and Canadian governance, while challenging them to be aware of their vital role as active
citizens;
e
creating engagement opportunities with the larger community in a cultural space where discussion and
debate are encouraged; and
e
attendance at local cultural and community events, providing increased access to Canadian heritage and
history.
“There can be no dedication to
Canada’s future without a
knowledge of its past.”
Table of Contents
1
Strategic Goals and Objectives 2013 - 2016
3
About Us
5
Exhibitions Presented May 2013 - April 2014
12
Educational Programming
15
Events
19
Activities for May 2014 - April 2015
21
Proposed Activities for May 2015 - April 2016
23
Reflections from a Visitor
“I am a Canadian, a free Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to
worship God in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free
to oppose what I believe is wrong, or choose those who shall govern
my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and
mankind.”
ƒƒ JGD, House of Commons, July 1, 1960
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STRATEGIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 2013-2016
Maintain a Well-Managed Collection
e
e e Adhere to professionally recognized museum collection standards resulting in the protection and
preservation of the collection
Maintain policies, procedures and training that are based on current best practices
Augment the current physical and digital databases to ensure ease of access for museum
purposes
Highlight the Importance of Diefenbaker’s Legacy and Canadian
History
Manage an exhibit schedule that broadly combines travelling, in-house produced and adjunct exhibitions developed with other cultural facilities and community organizations
e
Maintain a dedicated exhibit space that chronicles the life achievements and era of John
Diefenbaker
e Create and implement youth programming that inspires active citizenship and engagement with
Canadian democracy
e Actively reach out to local, provincial and national organizations to foster partnerships that
advance shared goals and values
e Present a rich assortment of artifacts and archival material through permanent and travelling
exhibitions
e Provide opportunities for the public to connect with Diefenbaker’s political legacy, and broader
Canadian history, through outreach events held on campus and within the local community
e Use social media to share historical images, documents and milestones
e Attract new audiences and extend visitor experiences by allowing viewers to immerse
themselves in digital exhibits and programs that have been made avaliable online
e
Provide Inclusive Programs and Events that Engage the Greater
Community
e
e
e
e
e
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Put learning and discovery at the forefront of all activities, producing high-quality visitor and
community engagement
Offer school and youth programs that are responsive to educator’s needs and curriculum
outcome requriements
Deliver customized tours and programming that will appeal to adult and senior audiences,
consequently strengthening the connection with diverse community partners
Develop a stronger relationship with high school and university students
Be a leading institution that is considered to be a valued cultural asset in Saskatchewan,
Saskatoon and on the University of Saskatchewan campus
Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
Establish a Welcoming and Accessible Environment that
Celebrates and Promotes Diversity
e Work to increase cross-cultural understanding through varied exhibit topics that celebrate
diversity and inclusivity
e Build, strengthen, and uphold partnerships with local, provincial and national stakeholders
e Attend a variety of community events to promote knowledge of, and engagement with, Canadian
history
e Provide well-trained, culturally aware staff who place an emphasis on visitor services and create
an engaging and positive atmosphere
e Improve communications strategies to reach a wide range of audiences
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ABOUT US
The Diefenbaker Canada Center (DCC) offers a distinctively Canadian cultural experience. Education,
learning and discovery are foremost in all activities and exhibits. With free admission affordable
programming and interpretive tours, the DCC has created a welcoming and accessible environment.
This fosters engagement that bridges the gap between the university and the greater Saskatoon
community, and between all citizens, irrespective of background.
Originally opened in 1980, the gallery and bulding underwent significant renovations (funded by the
UofS and the federal government) in March 2012, to modernize the spaces. Welcoming well over
ten thousand local, national, and international visitors annually, the DCC is a vital part of Saskatoon’s
cultural landscape.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
The Stone Gallery
The gallery is home to an in-house produced permanent exhibit highlighting the life and times of
Canada’s 13th Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker. National and international travelling exhibits also
feature prominently and have included previous prestigious exhibits such as: “Anne Frank in the
World,” Anne Frank Foundation (Amsterdam) and The Anne Frank Center (New York); “The Burgess
Shale: Evolution’s Big Bang,” Smithsonian Institute; and “Acres of Dreams: Settling the Canadian
Prairies,” Canadian Museum of History. As well, quality in-house produced exhibits have included:
“Westside Stories: The Métis of Northwestern Saskatchewan,” created in partnership with the
University of Saskatchewan, the Métis National Council and communities from Northwestern
Saskatchewan; and “Unity, Diversity and Justice: Canadian Approaches to Human Rights.”
Replica Rooms
The replica rooms capture Canadian political life as it was during the 1950s and ‘60s. The Prime
Minister’s Office is a replica of the East Block office during Diefenbaker’s tenure as Prime Minister. It
contains original and reproduction furniture, as well some of Diefenbaker’s prized personal items,
including a blue marlin, and John A. Macdonald and Abraham Lincoln memorabilia. The Privy Council
Chamber, where cabinet meets, presents replicas of Confederation era furniture and signed original
portraits of the first twelve Canadian Prime Ministers. iPads that feature speech excerpts, room
descriptions and a broad selection of historical photos, add an interactive component to the visitors’
experience.
Little Stone Schoolhouse (LSS)
The Schoolhouse (circa 1887) is recognized as Saskatoon’s first public building. As stewards of this
municipal heritage property, the DCC offers interpretative youth programming, and public open
houses annually, from May to October.
Campus Tour Program
The DCC offers comprehensive, themed and historical walking tours of the UofS campus, renowned
as one of the most beautiful campuses in Canada. Additionally, customized and themed tours are
added to further engage special interest groups.
Educational Programming
The DCC’s curriculum-based programming, targeting middle-years students, fosters an understanding
of Canadian history and challenges youth to be aware of their vital role as active citizens in today’s
society. Recently introduced full-day programming explore the Canadian system of democracy, and
the importance of human rights and freedoms.
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EXHIBITIONS PRESENTED
MAY 2013 - APRIL 2014
Fostering a Vision for Canada: The Diefenbaker Legacy
(ongoing)
Fostering a Vision for Canada presents the life of the Right Honourable John G. Diefenbaker from
his childhood through to the end of his tenure as the thirteenth Prime Minister of Canada. This
exhibit illuminates the character and legacy of Mr. Diefenbaker, explains his achievements and
challenges while in office from 1957-1963 and highlights his close connections with the University
of Saskatchewan. It charts his dedication to human rights and equality throughout his career as
a lawyer and his struggle to be elected to the House of Commons. Further, the exhibit features a
number of notable artifacts, including personal belongings, campaign memorabilia, and gifts received
throughout his political career.
The Canadian Bill of Rights
(closed June 2013)
This in-house researched and produced exhibit details the history of the Canadian Bill of Rights,
which was one of Diefenbaker’s proudest achievements. The show described how tragic human
rights violations during the Second World War led to an international shift in recognizing and
protecting human rights which further served to inspire John Diefenbaker’s legal and political
actions. It also emphasized the importance of the document’s creation and historic enactment in
1960, as well as the legacy of national concern regarding human rights issues that remains with us
today.
Unity, Diversity, and Justice: Canadian Approaches to Human Rights
(closed June 2013)
This exhibit, researched and produced in-house, expanded on the critical theme of human rights
explored in The Canadian Bill of Rights. It examined the origins of the Canadian Charter of Rights
and Freedoms, and underscored the impact of the Charter on Canadian citizens today. Weaving
Diefenbaker’s legacy throughout, it traced Canada’s human rights approaches over the twentieth
century, touching upon milestones which include the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the
Saskatchewan Bill of Rights, and the Meech Lake and Charlottetown Accords. Special consideration is
given to the concerns of First Nations people, as well as the Quebec Charte des droits et libertés de
la personne. The exhibit delves into broader global themes that include ideas of justice and equality
– encouraging visitors to think about how we as Canadians achieved freedoms, and how we view
human rights.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
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Touch the Sky: The Story of Avro Canada
(June 2013 - December 2013)
Opened June 26th, 2013, this exhibition, which was researched and produced in-house, focused
on the history of Avro Canada and the lasting impact its innovative research has had on aviation.
The exhibit encouraged visitors to look past the decisions and controversy surrounding the Avro
Arrow cancellation in 1959 and to focus on the accomplishments made by the company. The
show presented a number of artifacts on loan from the Canada Science and Technology Museum
Corporation (Canada Aviation and Space Museum) and included one of only three surviving original
Arrow nose cones and an instrument panel.
Touch the Sky contributed to the expansion of the DCC’s outreach within the university community as
it provided the opportunity for the DCC to partner with the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
As the cancellation of the Avro Arrow program is still a hotly debated topic, the exhibit also sparked a
high level of interest from local aviation enthusiasts and media which served to further promote the
exhibit, resulting in strong attendance.
The opening of Touch the Sky was held on June 26th, 2013. The event was attended by supporters
of the local aviation community, as well as cadets from the 107 and 702 Royal Canadian Air Cadet
Squadrons, who were very excited at the opportunity to personally engage with and further
their knowledge about Canadian aviation history. Featured speakers included: Rob Norris, MLA
for Saskatoon-Greystone; Patty McDougall, Vice Provost, Teaching and Learning, U of S; and Eric
Olauson, Saskatoon city councilor for Ward 8, who emphasized that locally produced and connected
exhibits such as Touch the Sky help the general public to connect with and explore key pieces of
Canadian history.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
The Myths, Controversy and Beyond, an Avro Arrow Panel
Discussion
The DCC hosted a panel discussion in conjunction with the College of Engineering on the controversial
cancellation of the Avro Arrow program. The panel was moderated by engineering alumnus Brian Korchinski
and the panelists included Rick Retzlaff and David Sumner from the Department of Mechanical Engineering,
and Russell Isinger and Don Storey of the Department of Political Studies. Alumni and members of the
public were able to engage via a question and answer session and to explore the gallery as part of the
evening event. This panel discussion was a highly engaging way to heighten public understanding of the
circumstances that led to the cancellation of the program, while facilitating a lively debate about the
outcomes of this enduringly controversial moment in Canadian history.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
A Queen and Her Country
(January – June 2014)
The DCC presented A Queen and Her Country, a travelling exhibit from the Canadian Museum of
history, through the winter and spring of 2014. This beautiful exhibit, created in honour of the
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, featured significant artifacts and images that told the story of Queen
Elizabeth II’s many visits to Canada throughout her 60-year reign. Many visitors fondly remembered
her coronation or watching her grow into the internationally celebrated monarch that she is today.
These personal experiences provided by visitors, merged with the narrative of the exhibit, often
resulted in deep feelings of increased or restored national pride. The DCC saw a marked rise in
the number of gallery visitors throughout the showing of A Queen and Her Country — over four
thousand patrons viewed the exhibit.
The opening of A Queen and Her Country on January 15th proved to be a very successful event. It
provided us with the opportunity to strengthen partnerships with local legion members, cadets,
scouts, The Monarchist League, military, veterans, youth organizations and an International Studies
undergraduate class. A daytime event gave grade 8 students from two local elementary schools the
opportunity to take part in new educational programming developed specifically for the exhibit,
concluding with a keynote address from Her Honour the Honourable Vaughn Solomon Schofield,
Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan and followed by an informal question-and-answer session. The
evening program included remarks from numerous dignitaries, including: the Lieutenant Governor
of Saskatchewan; Minister Lynne Yelich, MP Blackstrap; Minister Rob Norris, MLA SaskatoonGreystone; Chief Perry Bellegarde, Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations; Don Atchison, Mayor
of Saskatoon; Blaine Favel, University of Saskatchewan Chancellor; and Dr. Dean Oliver, Director of
Research, Canadian Museum of Civilization. Opening with such prominent guests heightened the
profile of both the exhibit and the DCC and resulted in bringing many new visitors to engage with the
uniquely Canadian cultural experience provided by A Queen and Her Country.
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Virtual Exhibits
The new online exhibits allow people to learn about Canadian history by overcoming obstacles such
as geography, mobility, or limited time. The DCC is excited to offer visitors the chance to virtually
explore Diefenbaker’s legacy through pictures, documents and audio files. Two new exhibits were
posted this year: Unity, Diversity and Justice: Canadian Approaches to Human Rights, and The
Canadian Bill of Rights. This virtual content allows viewers from around the world to engage with
exhibits that the DCC has researched and produced in-house. Virtual exhibit content may be used by
a variety of audiences which include, but are not limited to, educators and students. These patrons
are able to explore various topics in preparation for their visit and return to the site after they
leave our gallery. The virtual exhibit offers an avenue for interactive learning and these collections
of information available in the public domain provide a widely accessible, valuable and substantial
research resource.
Diefenbaker Mini Exhibit
In a concerted effort to both raise the profile of the DCC and increase public access to Canadian
heritage, a mini-display was presented at off-site events in the summer of 2013, offering visitors
a visual teaser of the Stone Gallery’s offerings. The panels included interpretive text and images,
which highlighted aspects of Diefenbaker’s legacy, including details on the Canadian Bill of Rights. In
addition, a Canadian history-themed prize wheel was debuted, providing an interactive component
which proved to be an effective draw for the public and created a fun, highly engaging atmosphere. 11
Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING
The DCC has established itself as a provider of high-quality, curriculum-based educational programing
that is delivered to thousands of students every year. These programs, passionately taught by UofS
undergraduate students, engage youth in important conversations about civics, history, and human
rights. Within a safe and welcoming environment, students are introduced to these fundamental
concepts which are illustrated through examples and case studies. Students are encouraged to think
creatively and draw attention to how their learning may be applied in everyday life. Interactive and
dynamic, these activities aim to inspire and encourage students to take ownership of their rights
and to enjoy the benefits of citizenship. Feedback from teachers who have participated in DCC
programming indicates they highly value our offerings for their success in promoting understanding
of Canadian institutions and emphasizing the importance of civic engagement, while meeting
curriculum goals and objectives.
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PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMMING
The Little Stone Schoolhouse Program
The original Victoria School, built in 1887, was an important public building constructed in Saskatoon.
During it’s prime, it operated as a schoolhouse, church, and community hall for the region. DCC student
interpreters have the pleasure of reopening the doors to this important heritage site and engaging the
current generation of schoolchildren in an immersive, hour-long program. An interpreter provides a
brief historical introduction and then takes on the period role of the schoolteacher so that students may
experience the differences between a modern school day and one from more than a century ago.
Pioneer Life
In this program, students learn about the reasons for pioneer settlement in new areas and the different
challenges that they faced. Artifacts are presented that provide students with a direct look into the lives of
the pioneers and their families as they are encouraged to contrast contemporary and historical day-to-day
life. In combination, the “Little Stone Schoolhouse” and “Pioneer Life” programs provide a thorough and
immersive perspective on Saskatchewan pioneers and the society that they built.
Choose Your Mascot
Utilizing education resources from Elections Canada, this program provides an engaging introduction to the
electoral process. Students learn the significance of voting and participate in an election simulation to select
a mascot who best embodies the spirit of their class. This interactive Arctic-themed program introduces five
animals as potential mascots, complete with campaign speeches and songs. After the program, students
head back to the classroom with a certificate proclaiming their new mascot, having laid the foundation for
their future civic engagement.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAMMING
Democracy to Active Citizenship (4 modules)
Freedom of Expression
Freedom of Expression encourages students to think globally about rights and
freedoms. Using examples from current events, students are introduced to freedom of
speech and the press, and the idea of personal intent. The value of political cartooning
is discussed as a lens into the benefits and dangers of freedom of expression. Finally,
students are encouraged to examine freedoms guaranteed in Canada that may not exist
or be recognized in other parts of the world.
Fight for Freedom
Fight for Freedom introduces students to human rights concepts and how lawful rulings
that protect rights and freedoms can be applied globally. Students are divided into
groups to examine and identify concepts promoted by Canada and the United Nations
to support their case for the release of an internationally imprisoned journalist. This
engaging activity explores differences between rights and freedoms, and the importance
of human rights in current affairs.
Democracy Now!
Democracy Now! provides students with a comprehensive and holistic view of Canada’s
democracy. The various levels of Canadian political bodies are outlined, including: the
House of Commons and Senate, the judicial system, the Cabinet, and the Crown. The
roles and responsibilities of these bodies are presented, and students are engaged in a
discussion regarding the importance of active citizenship.
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Make Your Mark
Make Your Mark gives students a detailed look into the principles and terminology
associated with elections. They examine election processes and the history of voting in
Canada, as well as the necessary fundamentals used to operate campaigns in a functional
democracy. The program concludes with an exciting hands-on election simulation that
gives students the opportunity to participate as candidates, electoral staff, and voters.
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EVENTS
Doors Open Saskatoon (June 2nd, 2013)
Rarely-seen artifacts from the Diefenbaker collection were brought out for this biannual event.
Visitors were able to view a selection of hats, canes, masonic aprons and fishing rods used by John
Diefenbaker. The university library also added a wide array of Diefenbaker-related archival material,
including photos, letters, cards and documents. This display was very well-received by visitors, who
were excited to interact with such personal items from Diefenbaker’s life.
Optimist Canada Day (July 1st, 2013)
Docent staff from the DCC hosted a booth in Diefenbaker Park for the Saskatoon Optimist Canada
Day celebrations to promote the new Avro Canada exhibit and to encourage knowledge of Canadian
history and politics through a trivia game. With a prime location within the park staff engaged with
over 1200 visitors of all ages, receiving very positive feedback from our offsite display.
Air Show (August 5th, 2013)
Docent staff from the DCC hosted a booth at the Canada Remembers our Heroes Air Show. The
booth’s panel display and family-friendly activities drew over 1000 attendees. Particularly engaging
was the Canadian trivia prize wheel, which allowed participants to answer questions in order to win
patriotic prizes. Docents spoke to hundreds of visitors, and of particular interest was the new Avro
exhibit. This event together with Canada Day was very important for wider community engagement
and for establishing the DCC as a major promoter of Canadian heritage in Saskatoon.
Little Stone Schoolhouse Open House (July and August 2013)
From July 2nd - 6th and August 6th - 10th, the DCC opened the Little Stone Schoolhouse to the
general public. The event was advertised on campus and during previous outreach events, as well
as via traditional and social media. The event attracted hundreds of visitors to the schoolhouse to
experience a key piece of Saskatoon’s built heritage. These open houses help us to foster civic and
historic awareness in Saskatoon and to promote the DCC to a wider audience.
Community Capus Tours (June, July and August 2013)
Every Sunday and Wednesday in June, July and August, the Diefenbaker Canada Centre offers free
historical walking tours to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. These tours, which focus on the
unique history and architecture of the campus, serve to connect the DCC and the U of S with the
larger Saskatoon community. In summer 2103, this program expanded to include themed tours on
sustainability, agriculture and notable alumni.
Canada’s Democracy Week (September 2013)
To mark Canada’s Democracy Week – a national celebration of our democratic values – the DCC
held a panel entitled “The State of Canada’s Democracy: Is Canada Becoming Less Democratic?”
followed by a lively Q & A session. Panelists discussed recent developments in Canadian governance
and whether Canada’s democracy is at risk of deteriorating. Moderated by Michael Atkinson
panelists included: Neil Hibbert, Jeremy Rayner, and Michael Boda. This well attended event afforded
participants an interesting and in-depth exploration of Canada’s democratic values and a look into
the future of governance in this country.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
Ghost Walk (October and November 2013)
In 2013, the DCC was approached by the U of S Alumni Relations about providing special ghost
tours, aimed at attracting alumni back to campus. The DCC saw this as an opportunity to share some
peculiar stories as a unique and fun addition to our standard campus tour, as well as an opportunity
to work with other university departments including the Museum of Antiquities. The hugely
successful Ghost Walk won a silver medal for Best Alumni Event from the Canadian Council for the
Advancement of Education in 2013.
Virtual Campus Tour (on-going)
To further our goal of increasing community access to heritage, those who are not able to join
walking tours in person have the option of exploring campus through a DCC-developed virtual
tour. This simulated experience was launched in early 2014 and uses historical images, as well as
contemporary photos and facts which highlight the history and architecture of the U of S campus,
both past and present. This well received tour has been delivered numerous times to various groups,
both on-site and at seniors’ and long term care centers.
Canada’s Heritage Festival of Saskatoon (February 2nd, 2014)
Enthusiasm from new visitors at the DCC in 2014 may be partially attributed to the success of
the Heritage Festival of Saskatoon event. Over 500 curious local residents visited the DCC booth,
including families, seniors and newcomers. DCC interpreters staffing the booth were able to
personally connect with these patrons, who were attracted by the Diefenbaker mini exhibit and
banners. Participating in the festival allowed the DCC to advertise its presence outside of the
university, encourage visitors to attend the exhibits offered within our gallery, and strengthen its
relationship with the Saskatoon community.
Earth Day Walk and Sustainability Tours (April 22nd, 2014)
The DCC celebrated Earth Day by hosting a themed tour in collaboration with U of S Alumni
Relations and the Office of Sustainability. The customized walking tour highlighted sustainability
on campus including large-scale initiatives like LEED building design and the use of solar panels at
the new residences along with smaller initiatives like compacting garbage cans, and upgrades to
energy-efficient lighting -- all of which have a positive effect on the environment. This was a great
opportunity to further promote our campus tour program and our ability to customize a heritage
tour with an environmental theme.
Man Show (April 2014)
The 2014 Man show was an opportunity to reach an audience that is not a usual part of our regular
demographic. Capitalizing on a generous offer from organizers for complimentary space, the DCC
set up a booth that debuted our new Canadian History Trivia Wheel, which proved to be a major
draw. Handbills were distributed to promote the DCC’s current and upcoming exhibits and even drew
visitors to the centre the following day. The Diefenbaker Mini Exhibit brought a uniquely national
and provincial focus to the show, filling a political and historical niche at the Man Show, which many
visitors appreciated.
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Social Media Interactions (throughout the year)
Social media, primarily Twitter, is emerging as an important tool to connect with local, new, and
returning visitors, and the DCC’s social media presence ramped up significantly in 2013-2014. By
posting historical images and trivia, as well as information on upcoming events, and partnering
with other history and politically-focused institutions, the DCC has reached a much wider audience
online. Facebook was used to promote contests for Avro Arrow merchandise during the Touch the
Sky exhibit, resulting in above average Facebook page participation and drawing interested visitors
to the exhibit and gift shop.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
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ACTIVITIES
MAY 2014 - APRIL 2015
A Queen and Her Country (closing June 2014)
This prestigious travelling exhibit from the Canadian Museum of History commemorates the
Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II from a uniquely Canadian perspective.
Democracy To Active Citizenship (May 2014 - April 2015)
Full-day educational programs for grades six to eight. Divided into sessions that focus on democracy,
citizenship, and rights and freedoms, this program will demonstrate the relevance of Canada’s
parliamentary institutions, democratic processes, and collective values.
Your Voice Matters: Building a Better Saskatchewan
(May 2014 - June 2015)
Your Voice Matters is an educational program that will be developed by the DCC in partnership
with Elections Saskatchewan. The program and material, to be launched in fall 2014 and delivered
in classrooms in the 2014-15 school year, will play a crucial role in underlining the importance of
democratic institutions and policy to students—the voters of tomorrow.
Museum Association of Saskatchewan 2014 Conference (May 2014)
The DCC will send two student delegates to the Museum Association of Saskatchewan’s 2014
conference in Swift Current. This will be an opportunity for the DCC to engage and network with
representatives of museums from across the province.
Creating Confederation: Celebrating the 150th Anniversaries of the 1864
Charlottetown and Quebec Conferences (May - Oct 2014)
Researched and produced in-house, Creating Confederation will be a highly portable display and will
be showcased at events in summer of 2014. It will examine how the meetings at the Charlottetown
and Quebec Conferences led to the uniting of British North America.
Expedition Arctic (June 2014 - January 2015)
This travelling exhibition is produced by the Canadian Museum of History in collaboration with the
Canadian Museum of Nature. Expedition: Arctic revisits the triumphs and tragedies of the Canadian
Arctic Expedition of 1913–1918, which claimed the lives of 17 men—most lost to exposure, mishap
or starvation—but which also added immensely to our understanding of Canada’s Western Arctic and
the cultures of its First Peoples.
Optimist Canada Day in the Park (July 2014)
Unveiling of the new traveling display, Creating Confederation, will take place at Optimist Canada Day
in Diefenbaker Park on July 1st. In addition an outdoor display booth, we will have all-ages activities
and on-site interpreters to answer questions and interact with visitors.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
Diefenbaker Youth Governance Camps (July - August 2014)
The DCC will hold three one week long youth governance camps that focus on Canada’s history,
governance and politics.
Little Stone Schoolhouse Open House (July - August 2014)
Public open house dates provide increased access for the general public; on-site interpreters in
period costume provide an immersive and engaging experience.
Community Campus Tours (June - August 2014)
Free walking tours highlighting the architecture and history of the UofS campus are offered to the
public bi-weekly. Summer 2014 will continue with themed tours including: Health and Wellness,
Sustainability, Agriculture and Notable Alumni.
Saskatoon Exhibition (August 2014)
An indoor display is set up at Prairieland Park. Various aspects of Canadian history are featured
together with activities for all ages. This eight-day event will allow large-scale promotion of Creating
Confederation as well as the DCC’s exhibits and programs to the general public.
Democracy Panel (September 2014)
During Canada’s Democracy Week the DCC will present a public panel where experts will discuss
democracy in Canada and respond to audience questions.
Ghost Walks (October - November 2014)
In partnership with Advancement and Community Engagement, UofS, the DCC will offer public tours
of campus with a focus on paranormal stories.
1812 (February 2015)
Opening in mid-February of 2015, this traveling exhibition developed by the Canadian War
Museum present a dramatic new account of the War of 1812, offering visitors a richer and deeper
understanding of a conflict that shaped Canada’s destiny.
Heritage Festival (February 2015)
An indoor display will be set up, including Creating Confederation. Various aspects of Canadian
history are featured with themed displays and activities. This one day event creates an opportunity
for high engagement with local citizens.
Flag Day (February 2015)
February 2015 will mark the 50th anniversary of adoption the Maple Leaf as the National Flag of
Canada. The DCC hopes to hold an event to commemorate this milestone.
Earth Day Walk (April 2015)
In partnership with Advancement and Community Engagement, UofS, the DCC will offer public tours
of campus with a focus on sustainability initiatives.
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PROPOSED ACTIVITIES FOR
MAY 2015 - APRIL 2016
Saskatoon Doors Open (June 2015)
The DCC will participate in the bi-annual event by opening the doors of the Little Stone Schoolhouse
to showcase this historical building as part of Saskatoon’s Doors Open – an initiative that aims to give
the public access to some of Saskatoon’s most historical buildings.
National Aboriginal Day (June 2015)
The final day of 1812 coincides with National Aboriginal Day, June 21. We hope to partner with
Whitecap Dakota First Nation to hold a community celebration.
Diefenbaker Canada Centre 35th Anniversary (June 2015)
The DCC opened June 12th, 1980; this milestone will be marked, perhaps in connection with the
celebration to close the 1812 exhibit.
A Call for Justice: Fighting for Japanese Canadian Redress
(July 2015 - February 2016)
In honour of the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Redress Agreement with the Government
of Canada in 1988, the Nikkei National Museum is presenting the first traveling exhibit celebrating
the emotional struggle to achieve an apology and acknowledgement for these unjust treatments.
This exhibit will examine the ten year fight using historic photographs, artifacts, poetry, personal
statements, art, and video.
Optimist Canada Day in the Park (July 2015)
An outdoor display will be presented in Diefenbaker Park together with all-ages activities and on-site
interpreters to answer questions and interact with visitors. A theme focused on the history of the
Canadian flag is planned.
Diefenbaker Youth Governance Camps (July - August 2015)
The DCC will hold multiple one week long youth governance camps that focus on Canada’s history,
governance and politics.
Little Stone Schoolhouse Open House (July - August 2015)
Public open house dates provide increased access for the general public; on-site interpreters in
period costume provide a positive and engaging experience.
Saskatoon Exhibition (August 2015)
An indoor display is set up at Prairieland Park. Various aspects of Canadian history are featured
together with all-ages activities. This eight-day event will allow large-scale promotion of the DCC’s
exhibits and programs to the general public.
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Diefenbaker Canada Centre, 2013-2014
Community Campus Tours (June - August 2015)
Free walking tours highlighting the architecture and history of the UofS campus are offered to the
public biweekly.
Saskatoon Canada Remembers our Heroes Air Show (August 2015)
The DCC plans to be a featured display at the 20th anniversary event for the Canada Remembers
project.
Democracy Panel (September 2015)
During Canada’s Democracy Week the DCC will present a public panel where experts will discuss the
state of Canada’s democracy and respond to audience questions.
Ghost Walks (October 2015)
In partnership with Advancement and Community Engagement, UofS, the DCC will offer public tours
of campus with a focus on paranormal stories.
Along the Road to Freedom: Mennonite Women of Courage and Faith
(February - August 2016)
This travelling exhibition is a project of the MHC (Mennonite Heritage Centre) Gallery. Along the
Road to Freedom: Mennonite women of courage and faith uses paintings and didactic panels to tell
the stories of women who led their families out of persecution and suffering to lives of freedom and
peace.
Heritage Festival (February 2016)
An indoor display is set up at the Western Development Museum alongside numerous other heritage
minded exhibitors. Various aspects of Canadian history are featured with themed displays and
activities. This one day event creates an opportunity for high engagement with local citizens, who
leave with a newly gained interest in the DCC’s exhibits and outreach programs.
The Man Show (April 2016)
An indoor display will be set up for the three day show, featuring the history of the
Canadian Flag and the popular trivia wheel. This furthers public access to heritage.
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Reflections from a Visitor
“I took my adult education class to the Diefenbaker Center and I am glad I did. We started by looking
at some of the basic structures of government and associated governance methods. While doing so,
we were able to break into appropriate dialogue about current issues and events, surrounding some
of the most controversial items of our day - most notably the Canadian Government relationship
with First Nations. It was valuable for us to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of
law-making that are built into the law itself, as it helped paint a clearer picture of why we are in the
position we are in today.
The second portion of our trip was in the gallery area, where we got to see some actual artifacts. It
really brought it to life - especially being able to sit at the replica government room. That was really
neat to sit in a round room like that - imagining the types of discussions that might have gone on
during that time. We were able to continue with the dialogue, and let it develop in relation to the
program of studies that we were already immersed in. It was a great compliment to the work we had
already done and I think my students really appreciated getting to know more about the system, and
government relations, while being immersed in that environment. I am very glad we went - and our
tour guide was excellent. I would take my class again in the future, without a doubt.”
e
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Hudson Byblow, SIAST Adult Basic Education Instructor, June 21, 2013
“No one can look unto the future. That is denied us. I can say one thing.
I have devoted the years of my life—the full span—to this country. That
devotion has been repaid over and over again by the fact that Canadians
have given me, in my custody, their hopes and aspirations. I shall continue
to do everything I can…to bring about the concepts which have been my
life’s work, the denial of discrimination and the preservation of unity.”
ƒƒ TV, November 8, 1965