October 21, 2009
Media Advisory
Outdoor exhibit will feature the “real treasures” of the Museum of Civilization – its workers
Gatineau – Striking workers at the Museum of Civilization are mounting an outdoor exhibit, featuring portraits of 200 workers who are currently on strike at the Museum of Civilization and War Museum. The installation is designed to show the faces and tell the stories of the museums' Striking Treasures – the dedicated and passionate workers who have been on strike since September 21, 2009.
The 420 workers voted 92 per cent in favour of a strike at the end of August and talks first hit a standstill on September 18. Negotiations resumed briefly on October 7, but broke off after the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation refused to agree to protections against the contracting out of the workers' jobs. The workers are in the midst of their fifth week on the picket line.
“We wanted to bring to everyone's attention the roles that this dedicated and highly skilled group of people play in contributing to the cultural heritage of this country,” says Marie-Louise Deruaz, a photographer, who along with Frank Wimart, captured the images of the 200 workers. “To me, these faces, out in the cold, say something about their determination to fight for their jobs and the commitment these people have for both museums' collections and their appreciative visitors.”
“What motivated me to help create this exhibition was to be able to demonstrate to visitors who we are and the important role that we play in the communication of Canadian heritage,” says Eric Pallotta, a project manager at the Museum of Civilization who is currently on strike.
WHAT:
Striking Treasures: The Exhibition – an outdoor exhibit featuring the “real treasures” of the Museum of Civilization and War Museum
WHEN:
Thursday, October 22, 2009, 11:00 a.m.
WHERE:
In front of the Museum of Civilization, Gatineau
For more information or to book interviews:
Ariel Troster, PSAC Communications - 613-292-8363 (cell)
58-211009
Date Modified : 2010/07/29
