Living Archives on Eugenics in Western Canada
The Living Archives on Eugenics in Western Canada (LAE) is a major research project, led by philosophy Professor Robert Wilson of the University of Alberta.
"[12] The LAE undertakes various projects that engage these components with a view toward the guiding objective of preserving the “Canadian collective memory” of eugenics practices in Western Canada in order to bring new light and perspectives on this part of its history.
LAE's projects include (1) a more thorough, complete, and systematic archival collection that is accessible to the public as well as scholars from various fields;[13][14] (2) the recording and archiving of oral histories told by eugenics survivors regarding their personal recollections of being institutionalized and sterilized;[15] (3) the creation of an interactive website that is accessible to the public;[16][17] (4) and developing high-school and university level curricula for the various disciplines that engage in the history of eugenics in Western Canada;[18][19][20] Given the goal of preserving the personal stories of eugenics survivors, archiving the oral testimonies of sterilization survivors is one of the major projects of LAE.
"[22] For Professor Wilson, having the support and involvement of sterilization survivors and their families is essential to the success of LAE, “and not just to have them at arm's length to the project but to really make them integral to what we're doing – providing oral histories and telling their stories and having a voice.
The 2011 Awareness Week included an art exhibit entitled ‘The Collective Memory Project: Responses to Eugenics in Alberta’ which featured “more than 20 contemporary works ranging from acrylics, digital prints and collages to pencil sketches, transfers, and archival photos” by “12 visual artists from across the country.
[25] During the 2012 Awareness Week, events included panel discussions about eugenics and marginalized groups, a celebration of the 40th anniversary of the repeal of the Sexual Sterilization Act of Alberta, and a performance of the play "Invisible Child" based on the life of Leilani Muir.
[29][30] The primary role of the traditional archives team is to do basic research into the various sources relevant to eugenics in Western Canada and improve access to such resources.
Its members include This team records individual narratives and promotes community dialogue on eugenics, inclusion, & social policies affecting people with disabilities.
