developed by Studio 303 and the Toronto Arts Council

A community is defined by its people. Mile End has long history of diversity and tolerance, making it a special place for all new comers regardless of religious background. Over three weeks, we met over fifty people who live and work in Montreal’s diverse community Mile End. We posted invitations to the community in five languages (English, French, Greek, Spanish and Portuguese) asking for their stories in order to create a walking tour through the streets & alleys of Mile End.  [SIGN UP FOR WALKING TOUR - CLICK HERE ]

This walking tour will reveal a few of the stories behind Mile End institutions such as Wilensky’s and Olympico Cafe –  places to which people still return, now in their eighties to find a sense of home. Who are the people who create these kinds of local landmarks?

Meet Tamey, the former Vietnamese Beauty Queen, a single mom with 14 children who has run the Flower Shop(s) on Bernard for over 20 years. Meet Anastasia who works with mother, father, sister, brother and extended family who have run a Greek pastry shop on Fairmount for 30 years. Hear about the Portuguese parade down St. Urbain from a woman who played in the marching band for over ten years.

As you walk the streets you will also see large photographs highlighting more people of Mile End. A reminder that these stories are but only a few of a rich history that is all around us. [CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PHOTO EXHIBIT].