Heritage and Hope: Fostering Identity and Unity in B.C

Museums play a significant role in shaping cultural understanding, identity, and community cohesion. Developing a museum and a cultural center requires community engagement and conversation. This seminar at the West Vancouver Library, hosted by Sherry Soltani, Poran Poregbal, and Samira Gholami, in collaboration with Skyrise Media Society, Middle Peace Society, and eight guest speakers, is a prime example of a civic issue that helps build capacity and trust in our communities. By fostering shared histories, values, and cultural heritage, museums help individuals and communities define and express their social identities, fostering a sense of belonging and pride.

Sherry Soltani highlighted, "A cultural museum in B.C. will be a cornerstone for preserving our diverse heritage and inspiring future generations." Poran Poregbal added, "It’s essential for our community to have a place where our stories and traditions are celebrated and passed down." Samira Gholami emphasized, "Museums provide a space for learning and connection, bridging gaps between different cultures and promoting mutual understanding.

Museums act as community hubs, bringing together diverse groups to share experiences, discuss ideas, and collaborate on projects, promoting social connection and mutual understanding. For children and adolescents, museums provide opportunities for informal learning, curiosity-driven exploration, and the development of critical thinking skills. Interactive and hands-on exhibits are particularly beneficial for younger audiences, inspiring them by showcasing role models from their culture or field of interest. This inspiration fosters aspirations and a sense of possibility, making the audience feel hopeful about the future.

This seminar, the second in a series, emphasized the importance of having a cultural museum in B.C. Guest speakers highlighted how such an institution can preserve cultural heritage, provide educational opportunities, and serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations. Parrsia Hossienzadeh noted, "Art and culture should be accessible to everyone, and a museum can make that possible." Babak Bani Hosseini shared, "Music and culture unite us; a museum can be a center for this unity." Their insights and collaboration underscore the significance of civic engagement in developing cultural institutions that resonate with and benefit the community.

Parinaz Zhandy (Be-soy-Ayandeh School of Art and Language)

Parrisa Hossienzadeh (Painter & Artist)

Bany Declair (Artist)

Babak Bani Hosseini (Musician)

Kimia Kashani (Designer)

Ali Khodami (BCACC Counselor)

Dr. Zohreh Ansari ( Writer)

Soheliasalehi (Nick Andishan Society)

In collaboration with:

Skyrise Media Society,

Middle Peace Society,

Parvaz TV

Nick Andishan Society

Be- Soy_ Ayandeh Art and Farsi Language School

Volunteer host:

Poran Poregbal

Samira Gholami

Journalist:

Sherry Soltani

Skyrise Media Society