A collection of photographs taken by Winnipeg youth offers a fresh perspective on some of city’s lowest income neighbourhoods. They tell stories of what makes for good places to live, and what needs to change. The exhibition, coordinated by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) with the support of local community organizations, will be launched Wednesday, Dec 11 at the Graffiti Gallery, 109 Higgins.
The project gave cameras and photography training to sixteen youth from North and West End Winnipeg. The youth were asked to take pictures of their neighbourhood. Many of the photos depict urban decay and abandoned spaces that are too common in Winnipeg’s Inner City. They also point to often-overlooked images of hope, nature and cooperation that are also a part of city life. The results are an urgent call to action to address poverty by supporting community development.
“When we looked at the photos, their artistic voice was immediately apparent,” said Molly McCracken, Manitoba director for CCPA. “We also saw how important community organizations are for these youth and how centrally these figure in their daily lives. Although poverty persists, using holistic practices, community-based organizations can support youth to develop a strong identity and healthy community.”
The exhibition is part of the CCPA’s State of the Inner City Report 2013. The annual report has examined different aspects of inequality in Winnipeg since 2005. This year’s report focuses on youth and poverty. Manitoba has the second highest rate of child poverty in Canada.
The report and exhibition will be launched Wednesday December 11th at 4:30 pm at the Graffiti Gallery, 109 Higgins.
