Amplifying Aunt Harriet's Voice

Dear Friends and Supporters,

"My Art is my Activism" this is helping bridge art within the healthcare system...a seriously underrepresented community that deserve support.

I am excited to announce "Amplifying Aunt Harriet's Voice: A Celebration of Black History and Healing." This project, part of my artist-in-residency with the City of Guelph, honours the true story of Aunt Harriet Miller, a 19th-century daughter of freedom seeker who found solace in singing. Aunt Harriet was allegedly 100 years of age and was taken in under the care of the Sister's of St. Joseph's Hospital.

As we continue to unearth this history we have come to learn that Aunt Harriet passed away Jan 28 1932.

Her story needs to be told so that she isn't simply a "picturesque character" of an older Black woman in Guelph (Toronto Star)

We aim to celebrate local history and bring art to those in the medical field. This piece welcomes introspection, space, and healing to patients as well as the public, encouraging engagement with their local history. Using contemporary photography, original music, multimedia installations, and community engagement, we will create an immersive experience at St. Joseph's Hospital in Guelph.

Hospital circa 1895

Class of 1911

Why We Need Your Help:

The residency funding only covers part of our expenses. We need additional support for:

Photo of ahdri zhina mandiela

Artistic fees for collaborators, including vocalist ahdri zhina mandiela who will play Aunt Harriet

Materials and supplies for multimedia installations

Equipment rental for photography and soundscapes

Research, Development and archival work on Aunt Harriet’s story

Community workshops and engagement activities for Fall gathering

Mae Cruz (Staff at St. Joseph's Hospital) and Guelph AiR (HAUI™)

How You Can Help:

Your contributions will directly support this powerful project, ensuring Aunt Harriet's story is honoured, inspires future generations and is never forgotten. Please consider donating to our campaign. We are so close and your help will be instrumental. Every little bit of support helps us get closer to our goal.

Thank you!