Canada's museums have undergone significant transformations over the past decade, influenced by the policies of the Trudeau administration. A recent visit to various institutions across the country reveals a trend toward identity-driven exhibits that emphasize individual experiences over a unified national narrative.

One notable example is the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax. This waterfront facility, once a bustling immigration hub, now serves as a venue for exploring the complexities of Canada's immigration history. On a rainy autumn day, a guided tour begins with a world map highlighting the origins of immigrants to Canada, accompanied by the provocative question, "Why Europeans?" The guide explains that prior to 1967, Canada primarily welcomed European immigrants while largely excluding others. She notes that many of these European immigrants came from northern Europe, suggesting that southern Europeans were often viewed unfavorably due to their skin tone.

The guide shares a personal story about a couple who passed through Pier 21: a British woman and her Indian husband. Initially, immigration officers addressed only the woman, ignoring her husband until she clarified that he spoke English. While the couple eventually settled in Ontario and thrived, the guide's emphasis on the initial discrimination sets a tone for the museum's narrative.

The museum's focus on grievances and individual identities shapes the visitor experience. The Pier 21 website features current exhibitions, including one titled "we would be freer," which explores the relationship between native plants and Indigenous peoples under settler colonialism. This exhibit weaves together the perspectives of a Mohawk woman and a Palestinian refugee, prompting visitors to reflect on the significance of sumac in their respective cultures.

Another exhibit showcases the work of Métis artist Tracey-Mae Chambers, who uses red wool and other materials to address themes of decolonization and reconciliation. Chambers describes red as a color representing various emotions and experiences, aiming to foster dialogue between settlers and Indigenous communities.

During the visit, discussions about Indigenous issues were prevalent, even in the context of immigration. For instance, a food exhibit highlighted the exchange of culinary practices between First Nations and Scottish immigrants, while another panel encouraged visitors to learn about the diverse food traditions of Indigenous peoples.

Overall, the curatorial choices at the Pier 21 Museum reflect a broader trend in Canadian museums to align with contemporary social movements and governmental mandates. This shift raises questions about the balance between acknowledging historical grievances and celebrating the collective identity of Canada as a nation built on immigration.