The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is showcasing Indigenous artists on its vehicles and throughout its system in honour of the Indigenous community.
In recognition of Indigenous History Month in June, the TTC started to display artwork of nine Indigenous artists in its subway stations, on specially wrapped buses and its streetcars to pay tribute to Indigenous employees, culture and creativity. The artwork will be on display until National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.
“The TTC plays a unique role in Toronto and it is critical that as an organization we recognize and support the diverse communities we serve. All our customers need to feel welcome on our transit system and all our employees need to feel supported in the workplace,” TTC Head of Corporate Communications Shabnum Durrani said in a statement to Now Toronto on Friday.
“Showcasing Indigenous Artists on our vehicles is one way the TTC is working toward becoming a more inclusive organization. We hope that everyone who sees the vehicles will take the opportunity to reflect and learn about the history as well as the strength of present-day Indigenous Communities,” she said.
The Indigenous artists featured in this year’s campaign are Ryan Besito, Emily Clairoux, Melissa Compton, Vanessa Dion Fletcher, Brandon Jacko, Natalie Laura King, Amanda Amour Lynx, Catherine Tammaro, and lastly, Fallon Simard.
Torontonians can see their murals on six wrapped buses, four streetcars, and on posters in vehicles and stations.
This campaign is part of the TTC’s efforts towards creating a Truth and Reconciliation Strategy to ensure true representation of Indigenous voices.
Additionally, the organization says it is collaborating with the City of Toronto’s Indigenous Affairs Office, First Nations and Urban Indigenous Communities, as well as the United Indigenous Council and other employees.
