Past Event

Moderated by Dr. Alissa Trotz, Director of the Women and Gender Studies Institute at the University of Toronto, this thought-provoking discussion brings together leading voices in literature, visual arts, and cultural theory to explore themes of resilience, diaspora, and the critical roles Indo-Trinidadian women play in shaping the dynamic Trinidadian identity. Evening will also include a reading and book signing from author Shani Mootoo.

Speakers

• Tessa Alexander, a celebrated Trinidad-based visual artist of mixed heritage, known for her vibrant watercolour and mixed media depictions of cultural memory, identity, and the female experience.
• Heidi McKenzie, an acclaimed Toronto-based ceramic and installation artist of Indo-Trinidadian/Irish heritage, whose work gives voice to, and illuminates the Indo-Caribbean experience, both past and present.
• Shani Mootoo, a renowned Trinidadian-Canadian writer recognized for her incisive portrayals of identity, migration, and gender in works such as the poetry collection Oh Witness Dey!, and novels Polar Vortex, and Cereus Blooms at Night. The author will also be doing a reading and book signing at this event.

The panel is sponsored jointly by The Centre for Caribbean Studies, The Women and Gender Studies Institute at the University of Toronto, Book*hug Press, So & So Sorrel and Soda, PEN Canada and under the auspices of the Consulate of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Toronto.