In commemoration of International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8, Windsor Park Collegiate (WPC) held a special Living Library event in the Library Learning Commons to celebrate the diverse voices and experiences of women and gender-diverse folks within our community, fostering dialogue, understanding, and empowerment.  

“The goal for our Living Library was to provide an enriching experience for students,” said Jae Pirnie, WPC’s Teacher Librarian. “We wanted students to have the opportunity to learn from some of the amazing women and gender-diverse folks right here in our Winnipeg community. We hoped that students would be moved, inspired, validated, and invigorated by all the stories. We wanted students to hear from people like them and learn from people who are different from them.” 

Throughout the day, students from WPC, Collège Béliveau, Frontenac School and General Vanier School had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with 18 remarkable individuals. These individuals, representing a wide spectrum of backgrounds, professions, and perspectives, served as living books, sharing their stories, insights, and journeys with eager students. 

“We were very fortunate to have so many “books” willing to participate,” said Jenni Stevenson, WPC’s Library Assistant. “Our staff at WPC shared names of friends and family they thought would make interesting books, and we also sent out quite a few emails to folks from around Winnipeg we felt would make engaging reads for our students. We were thrilled by the response as nearly everyone we contacted was eager to contribute!” 

The Living Library concept originated as a powerful tool for breaking down stereotypes and prejudices by providing a platform for individuals to engage in open and honest dialogue. By bringing together individuals from various walks of life, the Living Library encourages empathy, respect, and appreciation for diversity. 

At WPC’s Living Library, students had the chance to learn about a myriad of topics, ranging from career paths and personal experiences to societal issues and cultural heritage. Each “book” offers a unique narrative, enriching the learning experience. 

“As Teacher Librarian and Library Assistant, we know that stories are an amazing tool for change,” said Jae. “Stories have the power to inspire, enlighten, change minds and hearts, build empathy and so much more.”  

Through the Living Library, WPC’s Teacher Librarian, Library Assistant, and planning committee aimed to empower our students to embrace their own identities, aspirations, and potential. By amplifying the voices of women and gender-diverse individuals, they strove to create an inclusive and equitable environment where every individual feels valued and respected. 

“This was my first living library, and it was absolutely life changing,” said Shaffia Razzaq, a Grade 11 student at WPC. “I got to meet and speak with such incredibly empowering women and gender-diverse individuals; every moment was worth remembering. I noticed myself furiously blinking away tears while "reading" one book. These kinds of events are ones I believe every youth should get a chance to experience at least once in their life. I am beyond grateful to everyone who made this a possibility and hope I get a chance to become a "book" for someone else's living library in the future.” 

International Women’s Day reminds us of the ongoing journey towards gender equality and social justice. By engaging in conversations that celebrate diversity and challenge stereotypes, we take a significant step forward in creating a more equitable and inclusive society. 

Thank you to all the women and gender-diverse folks who participated in this event: 

• Lisa Dutton, Multi-Market News Anchor/Journalist Global News 
• Morufat Badmos, Medical Laboratory Technologist 
• Chloe Chafe, Co-Founder of Synonym Art Consultation, Gorge Drag Art Festival, and Wall-to-Wall Mural and Culture Festival 
• Meghan Malcolm, Founder of Willow Press Co. 
• Morgan Comrie, Cineplex Media 
• Megan Wray, Manager of Willow Press Co.  
• Dr. Karlee Sapoznik Evans, Deputy Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth 
• Rikki McDougall, Jewelry Maker 
• Alice Charles, Cheer Coach & Entrepreneur 
• Karli Colpitts, Tempo Collective 
• Mercy Oluwafemi, Youth Program Officer at The Winnipeg Foundation 
• Dominique Rey, Multidisciplinary Francophone Artist 
• Emily Erickson, Community Partnership Lead at the University of Manitoba 
• Adriana Alacrón, Program and Outreach Coordinator for Mentoring Artists for Women’s Art 
• Rose Bird, Teacher, Indigenous Education Team in the Louis Riel School Division 
• Kelsey Lenaghan, Anishinaabe Language Teacher in the Louis Riel School Division 
• Hon. Renée Cable, MLA Southdale 
• Alyssa White, Team Canada Para Ice Hockey Player