The Canadian Jewish Experience -- an exhibit that tells the story of how Jews have contributed to Canada’s strength and vibrancy during more than 150 years – is now on in display in the Leddy Library.

The exhibit uses photographs and panels to illustrate nine main themes, including patterns of immigration, war and diplomacy, public service, justice and human rights, economic growth, arts, culture, and sports. 

Tova Lynch, a spokesperson for the CJE board, says the exhibit celebrates the important roles that Jewish Canadians have played in all facets of life in Canada, dating back to the mid-1700s.

She says their accomplishments reflect the challenges and successes experienced in Canada over the past 150 years and can be celebrated by all citizens and residents, whatever their faith or ethnicity.

Lynch says the CJE exhibit stresses that Canadians continue to build a country that respects cultural and religious diversity, national unity, fairness and progress.

Included in the display is a wide range of Jewish Canadians, among them musician-poet Leonard Cohen and rapper Drake. As well, among the elected officials profiles are long-time Windsor MP Herb Gray, Canada’s first Jewish federal cabinet minister, and Windsor's David Croll, the first person of the Jewish faith to head a Canadian city, Ontario’s first Jewish cabinet minister and Canada’s first Jewish senator.

The Canadian Jewish Experience is a volunteer initiative curated by Sandra Weizman Morton, with contributions from Dr. Victor Rabinovich, president emeritus of the War Museum and the former Museum of Civilization (now the Museum of History).

The travelling display has been featured in many Canadian universities, the Canadian War Museum, Ottawa City Hall, Canadian War Museum, Parliament Hill, the Ontario and Manitoba legislatures,  as well as Canadian embassies or consulates in Israel, Los Angeles, Dallas and Chicago. It will be in the Leddy Library until May 31.

 For more information visit the online exhibit at: cje2017.com.