2 25 60 https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/41542f5d8518536058cf12b7859b5483.mp3 4ede4c5aead7a3968e9f164b18851ec3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Alberto Camacho-Mallaganes Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Camille Paillat; Sophie Renaud Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data On Zoom Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: Hello! Camille: Hello! Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: How is it going? Camille: It’s good, thank you. Hello again, my name is Camille, and this is Sophie. Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us today. Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes Camile: Nice to meet you. Of course, no problem. Camille: We appreciate your participation in this interview. So, we only have 15 minutes, and this Zoom is being recorded. Is it okay with you? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: Yes, that is totally fine. Camile: Alright, thank you. We are now going to start with the questions. Sophie: The first question we have is: Could you kindly share your country of origin? And what do you like the most about your country, such as the cities, environment, people, etc.? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: Yeah, so, mine is a little more complicated, I guess. I was born in Mexico, so that would be my country of origin. I moved to California when I was three years old, but I sort of went back and forth between California and Mexico. But as far as my experience with Mexico, I mean, the people are very welcoming and friendly. It is definitely, I don't know... a much slower type of people, I would say. Sophie: Also, what city are you from in Mexico? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: I am from Morelia, Michoacán, which is like, if you know where Mexico City is, about three hours northwest of Mexico City. Sophie: Next question, for moving to Ottawa: What made you move here? And what are those specific reasons? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: I moved to Ottawa because of a PhD. I got the opportunity to join a lab that was doing work that I was very interested in. So, I made the move to Ottawa! Sophie: Is it at uOttawa, Carleton, or another college? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: uOttawa, yes. Sophie: Do you have any family members residing in Ottawa, and how do you maintain connections with them if so? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: I don’t have any family members in Ottawa. All my family is back in California or Mexico. Sophie: For the fourth question: Which cultural celebration is the most significant for you, and how do you participate in it? This can either be in Ottawa, in California, or Mexico. Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: I would say, as far as Mexican holidays, that I still follow them since I moved to Canada. It would be El Día de los Muertos, which is supposed to be a week to a month where you remember people in your family that have passed away. Sophie: In what month is that holiday? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: It is in October, but I always forget. I will have to double-check. Don’t call me out on it, but I think it’s the end of October or the beginning of November. I think that’s when it falls. Sophie: So next question is about your heritage. How do you usually celebrate your cultural heritage? How do you honor it to this day? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: That’s a tough question... I mean, I guess whenever I have the opportunity, I tell people where I’m from. I don’t know if I do anything specific to honor my heritage other than sort of telling people where I’m from, how I grew up, and maybe sharing food. Sophie: What is your favorite food if I can ask? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: It kind of depends... I would say that my favorite is what we call mole, which is like a Mexican curry. That’s the best way to describe it. Sophie: Alright, thank you! Camille: Alright, from what you shared so far, is there anything important that you believe people should know and understand about your culture or community? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: You know what, I think and feel like there is a lot of stereotypes associated with Mexicans. There are certain holidays that are associated with Mexico, such as Cinco de Mayo and stuff like that, but it isn’t really a thing. We don’t all sip tequila and eat tacos all day long. Although we love tequila! Tacos are a huge part of our culture, but the cuisine is like extremely diverse, and there is stuff outside of tequila and tacos too that are associated with culture. There is a rich history there! Camille: And, also, what values do you hold most dearly? Are there any specific traditions, beliefs or practices that are especially meaningful to you? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: Since my mom passed away, I would say the Dia del Muerto is the big one, where it is like when you lose a loved one, after a couple of years you kind of start to forget. It becomes less present in your life that this person is gone. It almost builds a little alter to them, such as you put up their pictures, you buy their favorite snacks, make their favorite foods, or like if they have a specific type of trinket and you put it up next to the picture. It makes you remember a lot of the things that you care for about this person. Camille: To go back to the food, can you share three of your favorite traditional dishes? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: I would say, like mole is probably my favorite one. I know I just said that there is more to the cuisine that tacos, but I love tacos, and to be specific, I love el pastor tacos. They are call it “Mexican shawarma”, and it is basically cooked in the exact same way that shawarma is. But instead of it being chicken and beef, it is pork. So, it’s pork base and it is marinated in a chili paste sauce. It is super tasty. For my third one, it is called a torta, which is a Mexican street sandwich. Camille: If you prepare them, where do you usually go find the ingredients, if you know? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: It’s a struggle to find ingredients here. I mean there is a few little Latin markets. But often times, if you want to make a mole, you have to go to three or four different little Latin markets because they each carry one or two things that you need to make it. It is kind of rough... But, I will say though that I have seen salsa verde. Also, when I moved here five years ago, tomatillos which is a type of green tomato were impossible to find. Now, Loblaws, Metro, and Whole food carry them. So, it is like hey!.. There must be enough Mexicans that they start to carry this specific product. Camille: We are currently working on a website to help share this community's stories. The name of this website is Omeka. It is an open-source attachment system designed to create digital archives. And, how likely are you to engage with it? Do you have any suggestions for how we can make it more accessible and engaging? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: I’ve never heard of the website, so I can’t say that I have engaged with it. So I would say that maybe making people more aware of the website would be my biggest suggestion. If people know about it, they are more likely to engage with it. Camille: Before we wrap up the interview, is there anything else you would like to share, or any thoughts or suggestions? Or even personal stories? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: Not on the top of my head that I can think of. If you guys have any more questions or would like to know more, I know you said you only had 15 minutes, you have 5 minutes if you wanna ask more questions, I am open to share whatever you want to know. Camille: Sophie, do you have any questions? Sophie: I was wondering if your family came to Ottawa? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: My family came to visit me I would say it was like 6 months after I moved here. Other than that, they have not come up to Canada because of the whole pandemic thing, and then after it been like “well I should be done with my PhD soon, come when I finish my PhD”. Sophie: And how did they find it here? Just wondering how you and your family like Ottawa? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: I actually really like Ottawa; I was really surprised. You know, I feel like when I was moving here, I knew it was the capital of Canada, and then I had seen the video of the guy that pulled a raccoon in a McDonald's. That was the two things that I knew about Ottawa, and I was like “yeah alright”. But then I got here, and I don’t know ... it is a really nice city: it has a nice balance of big city stuff, and I like how easy it is to get on the bike path and Gatineau Park. It is something that I really appreciate. Sophie: Now, my last question for you: Are you planning to stay in Ottawa for longer? Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: That is to be determined. For my PhD, I work in cancer research and my goal is to move in biotech or work in the private sector. Ottawa doesn't have a lot of industries for that. I was potentially thinking to apply to the federal government to work in research labs but there are hiring freezes. Ottawa might not be where I end up, but I like it here, and if I end up staying, I would be very happy with that. Sophie: Alright, thank you! I think this is all for us. Camille, do you have any questions? Camille: No, that was all the questions I had. Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: I feel like you were shocked about the raccoon. Camille: YES! Everyone has heard of it. Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: Yes, it was a funny moment that was caught on video. You should feel proud of being a native from Ottawa for that video and that’s what you’re known for. It gives you guys an edge. Camille: Thank you so much for your time and hearing your experiences. Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: Of course! Camille: Your contribution is very important to us. Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes: Happy to assist! Camille: Thank you so much and have a great night! Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Mr. Alberto Camacho-Magallanes Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025-03-18 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 13 min 42 s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource Alberto Camacho-Mallaganes was born in Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico which is a city located approximately three hours northwest of Mexico City. At the age of three, the interviewee moved to California but frequently traveled back and forth between Mexico and the United States. Later the interviewee relocated to Ottawa for a PhD after receiving to participate in a research lab that was aligning with their academic interest. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/6c065821d5da72f5d7e590a757b77aa3.mp3 9785bf187d7dcca84229d4626e917769 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Natalia Proano Gallegos Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Maria Proano Gallegos; Perlene Tshibaj Kawen Karumb; Maya Norgaard Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data In person Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Maya: Hello to our listeners. Today, we're going to be conducting an interview with Natalia as our interviewee. My name is Maya, and I'm going to be interviewing along with Perlene and Maria. Maya: Natalia is from Ecuador, and we're going to be asking her about her culture and her Ecuadorian identity. This is for the anthropology of Latin America and Caribbean in ANT 3340 at the University of Ottawa. Today is March 13th, 2025. This interview is going to be in English. Maya: And… All right. I think we're good to begin. We're going to be rotating the questions between the three of us. Maya: So, I'll go ahead with the first question. Natalia, what's your country of origin? Natalia: My country of origin is Ecuador. I was born there and I stayed there till I was 12 years old. Then, I moved to Canada. Perlene: So, I will go with the second question. What brought you to Ottawa? Natalia: What brought me to Ottawa was mostly my family, my brother. I was living in Winnipeg, and my brother wanted to study in the uOttawa, so then we thought that we could all move into Ottawa so that we can be closer to my brother and also to my sister. She was also going to study in uOttawa. Maria: What brought you to Canada then more specifically? Natalia: We brought me to Canada was the situation of my country as well as my family financial situation. My brother was 17 at the time, and so he was about to start university, but my family coudn’t afford university, so we thought of kind of Canada because the school is has really good schools and it's and it's free as well as there's more help with studying in university. Maya: Do you have family here and do you see them frequently?  Natalia: I have my whole like nuclear family here, my, my siblings and my parents. And I also have an uncle that he came after us moving in Canada. And, um, I also have another uncle that he came here, but he's in Quebec, so I don't see him frequently as I see my other uncle that he came to Winnipeg with us and then later on to Ottawa. Perlene: Do you live in a Latin community or neighborhoods where people speak Spanish and/or Portuguese and celebrate various occasions? Natalia: I don't live in a neighborhood where there's a lot of Spanish … Spanish people. Although I do have some neighbors that are Latin. And I… I don't have a community as much as like in my in my neighborhood. But I do go to a Spanish church where everybody is a Spanish, so I… I live there more. The community of Latin. Maria: What celebrations are more important to you? Natalia: I'll say Christmas… ‘Cause it's really important to me as, as well with the religious aspect to it. I'm Catholic and it also has a really good memories, especially with my, in my family. We used to do really, like, big parties and we used to stay up till like 3:00 AM and it was, like, the whole day. So it's definitely no, I definitely say, Christmas. Maya: Can you describe a typical day in your community? Natalia: I… I think a typical day. Well, I… I wouldn't sure of that question because I think yes, I have a, have a, background of like Latin America, but at the end of the day it is a normal culture, and like I guess like a typical day for, for me is also a typical day for any Canadian. So… I'll say maybe like. Like, reframe the, like the question, because we are all human and, and we all like do typical day stuff like eating and buying food and then going to school and then working, and taking a shower, so yeah. Perlene: How do you celebrate your heritage? Natalia: I’ll say I celebrate… I’ll celebrate my heritage mostly with other people, like sharing my, my culture and, and like teaching other people my culture as well. And, also especially with like dances, or with history facts, or with food. I think a way of celebrating my my culture is when I, and I cook meals that are from, from my, my culture or when I speak Spanish with other people. I think that's a way that I can celebrate in Canada, my culture. Maria: And Speaking of culture, what would you say are some values that you hold the most dear as a member of the Latin American community? Natalia: I think some values I don't… I don't see my values being related as my, my origins, but I do see my values more related to religion. And it is true that most Latin Americans are Catholics. So, I'll say I can see the link there in like Catholicism, but my values are really… I think, I think I think one of the Latin American values actually is really that I've seen a difference here in Canada is like family. In Latin family from my culture, family is very important and we are very united in family rather than here. I feel like I see more separation, like it's normal to… for kids to eat alone or for parents to not, like, do their thing. But in in Ecuador it was all very like… Very related, very united. And it was like it was like “I” don't have a problem. It's not like my mom's problem, but it's like my problem as well. So yeah, I think that that can be considered as a value. Maya: And what would you like to share about yourself or your community that you think is important for people to know? Natalia]: I would like to share that… That the way… That the way that you know there's, there's so much there's there is violence in in my country, it's not it's not necessarily for like a cultural thing but it's more because people they don't have accessibility to food or to do work, and so they they're more, like desperate, and then they start like robbing. But the culture itself, it is a very beautiful and very like has good values of like… Love and like respect, but it is hard to, to live all of that in a country where it's so hard to, to afford basic things and to have a normal life like with work and in school. Perlene: So what food do you make that reminds you of home, and where do you purchase your grocery to prepare your traditional meals? Natalia]: One food that I make that reminds me of home is this thing called Majado, is mostly with plantain. And I think like any superstore, have, has plaintain, luckily. And so I always I, I have no problem with finding mostly, my, like, the food. There's also some Latin markets in Gatineau that I've, I've gone to, where like, I can purchase also, like, corn because here the corn is very, like, more sweet. But in my country we have like… Corn that's more salty, I guess. And so, I love that corn. And so I, yeah, I go to Latin stores too to… To have that. Maria: Awesome. Thank you so much. How likely would you now say you or be to use the website we are creating for uploading your stories? And how would you use it? We would like to serve better the community, so any suggestions from you about access, as well as what should be posted, would be greatly appreciated. Natalia: I think you can post… Yeah, I think it's really good to post something related to culture so that people can know more about other cultures. I think we live in Canada and it's a very cultural country where there's a lot of countries, and, and it's, it's very important to to learn each other's history and, and cultures to grow more. Maria: Are you likely to use the website then? Natalia: Yes, I think I'll be likely to use the website to learn more. Maria: Okay, awesome. Maya: Okay, and I think just for our final question here, um, are there any extra, like, comments or concerns that you have? Natalia: No, I think I'm good. But if you guys have any other questions, feel free to ask. Maya: I think earlier you mentioned, okay, so we're actually at 10 minutes, so plenty of time. But, I think earlier you mentioned at the values question that there was, like, dances that you do. Could you talk more about that? Natalia: Yes. In my, in my country is very, is the dance aspect to… It's very related to festivals, and the aspect of festivals is like again very related to religion, to religion. So when there's like, for example, we have the day of La Mama Negra, which means it's the day of, firstly, the Virgin Mary. And so for those festivals, there's a lot of dances, and, the, the different dances they also have different like, like persons, like there's dances where… It's like a man dressed up as like this, like, like the devil. It's called like the Diablo Huma. And it's very colorful, and they do specific dances and they also have, like, a whip. They say whip? Yeah, they have a whip. And so they, they do dances. It's mostly like jumping. And there's also we have also like the we call them like the clowns and they have, they’re like dressed-up like clowns. And they also like, go around and dancing, and people also like dance there. And it's like a whole, like, festival with, like, a bunch of dances are, are happening and also people there are like celebrating and dancing as well. Natalia: And yeah, I think it's, I think music also is, is very related to… To culture. Sure. Maria: And I wanted to ask you more about you, a little bit when you arrived to Canada. What were some of those cultural shocks that you lived through? How was that transition from coming from Latin America to Canada? Natalia: I think, I think there was definitely very like, cultural shocks. I'll say the the most like impactful one for me, was just how people used to socialize in Ecuador. When we say hi, we mostly like give like a hug or like. Kind of like, yeah, it's we're very like close to one another, right. In Canada, people don't leave themselves with hugs or people don't really like, talk too much, with like, strangers, but they make whether, like, if there was a new kid, everybody would come up to the new kid and, like, talk to them and try to include them in, like, any group. And also like in Ecuador, you know my school like nobody was alone. But when I came to Canada, I found out that, the culture was like, more of like an alone culture. People were doing their thing and they were not like talking to others as much like they have their little like group of friends. They will not go to talk to other kids, and it was, it was just very like, more like closed up and more like cold. Natalia: And so that really shocked me because, like I was, I came to my school and I was new and like, nobody came to talk to me. So I like it was just, it was really very shocking because I wasn't used to that. And I also wasn't used to how people… For example, like in Ecuador, it's really easy to make friends that you talk to someone once and then like, that's your friend. And then you, you hang out with that person, right? In Canada, like, you can talk to someone once, like in school, I will talk to someone and then the other day it was like we didn't even know each other. Natalia: So it was all very hard. It was also really hard for, for me, because I… I didn't know, I didn't know English coming here, so I had to learn English and also like, how to behave in, like, this new culture, so that was definitely a hard time for me. Maria: So, in, in these times, would you say that it was kind of key to find people from your same culture. How, where, did you find that support and how do you manage that? Natalia: Yes, I tried that in my school, though I didn't. There weren't many kids that, they weren't Latin. But I did find kids that they were immigrants as well, like me, and they were mostly from African countries. And I found that their culture was very more similar to mine because they were like, more open to talk or they were like, more like they were like, I don't know, more loud like… And yeah, more more. Natalia: It was for me at the time it was, it was much easier to make Africans friends, than, than the other kids cause, I don't know, at the time it was hard now, no. For me it's like it's the same, I can… I know how to… Make friends in all cultures, but at the time I also wanted someone to relate to that, it was… It was, yeah. I definitely had friends that were more like immigrants. Maria: That's very understandable. I can imagine that it's extremely important to find that community to rely on. Where is that community now and how do you find that, kind of like, community, where you fit in, where you can relate to that Latin American culture? Natalia: I have. I've made friends that were Latin and my best friend, she's Colombian. And so I talk to her, I, I found a lot of like support just like she, she understands my culture and then we can go to, like, dances together. And she knows my music and she knows how to dance like in my country. And also like we cook the same food. But I've also found community in other cultures here in in Canada. Natalia: Yeah. Like, like I've said, now that I speak English and I'm I'm like familiar to… To more like the Canadian culture and to other cultures, and I have friends from here that are also, like, very Canadian and I'm experiencing that now that it’s easier for me to socialize and I also have friends, yeah, from all over. Maria: That's wonderful. Thank you, Natalia. Natalia: You're welcome. Maya: All right. Just one more question, just to end us off. You mentioned that Christmas was your favorite holiday. Are there any, like, stark differences between, like, Ecuadorian Christmas in Ecuador versus like Canadian Christmas?  Natalia: Yes, I think, I think it's hard for me to really tell the difference ‘cause, in Christmas, even now that we're in Canada, we still like celebrate in an Ecuadorian way with my family. But I think still like, main, is like in, in Ecuador, we stay… It's a very, very late Christmas rather here. I think people go home and like, go to sleep after Christmas. Natalia: But yeah, in Ecuador is like the whole day, the whole night. It's like we party a lot and we do dances, there's like, a lot of food, especially, like, supper. And even in the morning, like, it starts from the morning and it ends, like, really, really late. Maria: Right. And we're talking about the 24th, right? Just to be specific, you celebrate Christmas on the 24th? 00:17:50 Natalia: Yes, yes, that too. I celebrate Christmas on the 24th from the morning. And then at 12:00PM we, everybody would give a hug because we're, like, now it's like kind of like Christmas, but it was already Christmas in the morning. But we give a hug at 12:00PM and then we stay up, till like the night of the, or like the day, during the night of the 24th. And then the 25th, we're like super tired because like… We partied all night on the 24th. So the 25 you were mostly like in bed. Like, really tired. Like opening gifts. But yeah, it's mostly that the 24th, it's like really big. Maria: And also you, you were mentioning that Latin American countries being mostly Catholic, would you see the difference in the Christmas back in Ecuador being concentrated more in their religious aspects rather than here, where it has been taken out of the religious aspect? Natalia: Yeah, I see it, especially in like, the city in Ecuador. Everything is also decorated with, like, the, how we say, “pesebre”, the Nativity. And there's like, a big like Mountain in Ecuador, El Panecillo, and at the top they used to have really big… Like silhouettes of the Nativity and like, was like, with the Virgin Mary, Jesus. And they're like, they also, the three kings. And it was like really, really big. You could see, like, from really far. And like, like in all the streets, also like, nativities and like little angels and like also the songs related to Christmas in Ecuador there is a very religious aspect to it. I will hear like songs are… It's, it's more like… Like, um, like Christmas. Different Christmas. Natalia: So yeah, I, I definitely saw the change because back home everything was like we will sing songs, they will like, celebrate like the Nativity and here the Christmas it was more like different. Also more, like, stronger like, with Santa Claus and everything. Maria: Well, thank you so much, Natalia, for this wonderful interview. It's been great chatting with you. Natalia: Thank you. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Natalia Proano Gallegos Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025-03-13 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 20 min 4 s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource Natalia is a nineteen-year-old student originally from Ecuador. She arrived in Canada when she was around twelve years old. Natalia first arrived in Winnipeg and then, later on, moved to Ottawa. Due to growing up in Ecuador, she feels very close to her Latin American culture. During this interview, Natalia will talk to us about the process of coming to Canada and telling us about her culture and identity. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/0aaa8eb7b0a2f50ccdddfb7c7318a8f3.mp3 9630783aeba20b1498a5415cfdc3c66e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Paolina Valdez Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Alyssa Amey; Elijah Dawson; Alexander Turner Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data In person Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Alyssa Amey: Today we are here to interview Paolina, a fourth year university of Ottawa student who is from the Dominican Republic, specifically Santo Domingo. My name is Alyssa. I'm here today with my team members, Elijah and Alex, to conduct an interview as part of an ethnographic study on Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean communities. This interview is being conducted for Anthropology 3340 at the University of Ottawa. I will let Alex begin with the questions now. Alexander Turner: So our first question to you is, what is your country of origin? Paolina Valdez: I was born in the Dominican Republic. I lived there my whole life, up until I was 18, and that's where my family's from as well. Alexander Turner: The next question is, what brought you to Ottawa? Paolina Valdez: Um, I moved to Ottawa when I was 18 to start my university career, uhm, I wanted to move away first of all, because there were a lot more diversity in uhm careers when it came to sociology and communications, and because uhm I did want to apply an English uh study to my university career. Alexander Turner: And—uh–do you have family here, and do you see them frequently? Paolina Valdez: Uh…. no, my family all lives in the Dominican Republic, but I do visit them frequently—uhm–I see everyone back home, and I do visit a lot. Elijah Dawson: Do you live in a Latin community or neighbourhood where people speak Spanish and or Portuguese and celebrate various occasions? Paolina Valdez: So here, I do not live in a Latin neighbourhood, uhm, but I do know a lot of Latin people with whom I do speak Spanish whenever I see them… uhm I do sometimes celebrate some– uhm Latin occasions here that I wouldn't back home, like Cinco de Mayo and other stuff, uhm and back home, I do live in a completely Latin neighborhood and community where everyone speaks Spanish to each other, and we all have—uhm shared values. Elijah Dawson: What celebrations are most important to you? Paolina Valdez: Uhm for me, personally, and for most Dominican people, I'd say that Independence Day, which for us is the 27th of February uhm, is one of our most important uh—celebration—uh and other ones would be more connected to religion. So Easter Week, we never work. We never, we— everyone always goes on vacation, uhm, we also have Christmas is very important to us, and a lot of Saint days, we all have off. Elijah Dawson: Can you describe a typical day in your community? Paolina Valdez: Uhm, I'd say that usually we do have a lot of community connection. We do see our friends very often, at least once a day. I think that uhm, a connection with friendships, family members and just everyone around you is more typical in everyday life. Back home, uhm, we usually do uh–go out to eat more often— uhm to see people and to just like, hang out. Elijah Dawson: How do you celebrate your heritage? Paolina Valdez: I think through music, food and other things, I love listening to Spanish music whenever I miss home—uhm anytime there's a sunny day I feel connected to back home, and there's just a lot of practices that I apply in my day to day life that help me celebrate my heritage. Alyssa Amey: So moving forward, what are some values that you hold most dear as a member of the Latin Caribbean community? Paolina Valdez: Uhm I think, like us in previous questions, a community and a sense of uhm— connection is very important—Is very important value that we see a lot back home, that I think applying it to my life here has been good uhm, something else that I find very important is just a sense of like direction, connection uhm, that we don't see as much often here, but is very important for our communities back home. Alyssa Amey: And what would you like to share about yourself or your community that you think is important for people to know? Paolina Valdez: I think the warmth of the uhm, people back home, the how much people care, uhm if anyone asks for directions, they'll even take you somewhere. Uhm, I think those type of small acts really make a community uhm something else, I think, is just the connection with food and music that people have, even if you don't speak the language, you can feel uhm I think the feelings that people have over these things and the cultural significance of everything. Alyssa Amey: Uhm also, what foods do you make that remind you of home and where do you purchase your groceries to prepare your traditional meals in Ottawa? Paolina Valdez: Uhm, what reminds me of back home is eating plantains. I feel like that's something that we usually cook with a lot, like whether it be fried or uh— in mashed, like mashed potatoes, other foods like rice with meat and just other sides, I feel like, remind me a lot of back home. Sometimes I do grocery shopping in more Latin American markets, like the one in Byward and the one in Somerset. There's another one— uhm, but I do a lot of my purchases in normal grocery stores as well. Alyssa Amey: Uhm, and moving forward, how likely would you and your family be to use the website we're creating for uploading your stories, and how would you use it? We would kind of like to better serve the community. So any suggestions from you about access as well as what should be posted would be greatly appreciated. Paolina Valdez: Uhm… I feel like older family members would be more likely to use it, and maybe, uhm, my cousins and stuff to send my grandparents pictures or videos or memories of uhm, anniversaries or vacation and such uhm, I feel like that would be useful in that way uh, maybe more uhm, accessible it would be if there was a possibility to put in Spanish and English— uhm, if you could connect the pictures with uhm, your phone pictures, or if they were accessible, way to share images or videos with people that don't have access to maybe uhm, being able to download an app or such. Alexander Turner: And uh finally, do you have any other comments or concerns? Paolina Valdez: Uhm— I feel like Latin American communities have a lot to offer, uhm, globally and in Canada uhm, and that there is a lot of richness to all the great different cultures, and that we all have very big variety of— um— values and historical and political backgrounds. Alyssa Amey: Well thank you so much for speaking with us. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Paolina Valdez Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025-03-20 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 7 min 31 s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource This project is an ethnographic interview conducted with Paolina, a fourth-year Sociology student at the University of Ottawa. Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, she shares her experiences of cultural adaptation, preservation, and connection as a member of Ottawa’s Latin American and Caribbean community. Through this interview, Paolina reflects on her heritage, the significance of food, music, and celebrations, and the challenges and opportunities of maintaining her Dominican identity while living abroad. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/b2017b9b9e2f957245463f89ffa1fe41.mp3 b8facfebf5292d422bb13342968ae3b2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Rafael Rodriguez Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Laurien Wang Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data On Zoom Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Interviewer: What brought you to Ottawa? Rafael: I came here because maybe around when I was 13, which was around eight years ago, my dad had a job opportunity and we just all moved here. Interviewer: Okay, what's your country of origin? Rafael: I am originally from Mexico. Interviewer: Where in Mexico? Rafael: From Monterrey, which is the border in the United States. I was there until I was 13. Interviewer: Oh, wow. Do you have family here and do you see them frequently? Rafael: I have an uncle that I see infrequently maybe once or twice a month mostly because he comes visit my mom but aside from that I don't have any other family. They all still live in Mexico. Interviewer: Do you live in a Latin community or neighborhood where people speak Spanish and Portuguese and do you celebrate various occasions? Rafael: I don't live in Latin community. I would, if I see anybody that's maybe speaking Spanish, I would gravitate towards that person, but don't necessarily live in that kind of community. It's not something that we were looking for, especially when we moved. But in terms of celebrations, we still celebrate every single holiday that we would celebrate back in Mexico, especially every, I guess, We were raised pretty religious. I'm not personally religious, but every single holiday that comes with Catholicism, I celebrate that with my family. yeah, that's pretty much it. Interviewer: Okay. Is there a reason why you don't live in a Latin community or neighborhood? Rafael: not really a reason, it's just not something that we were looking for. Or we were looking out for, guess, to settle in. Interviewer: Do you wish you moved into a more lasting community or it doesn't really matter to you? Rafael: I think it could be nice, but you know personally it's more about the living situation than community. I know it's very different for a lot of people, but for me personally it's more about the situation where you're at, not the community. Interviewer: Okay, that makes sense. What celebrations are the most important to you? Rafael: It's kind of a simple answer, but I would say birthdays. Just having to celebrate the birthdays of my family, just being able to hang out with them, especially since I'm in college now and I'm not living with them. So I only get to go home once, maybe once or twice every other month. Interviewer: Okay, cool. Uh, can you describe a typical day in your community? Well, I know you said you didn't have one, so I don't know if that applies. Yeah, yeah, I would say that wouldn't apply. Is there any other community that you engage in? Sorry? Is there like another community you engage in? Rafael: Not really, no. I'm pretty introverted, personally. That makes sense. Interviewer: How do you celebrate your heritage? Rafael: I guess, you know, I don't really celebrate it. just, I make a point to never forget, I would say. Just to know that there's a lot of things that I loved back in Mexico and I still love them now. I'm still trying to keep up with them, even though it's a little bit harder, but you as long as I make the effort, I still have that connection. Interviewer: Oh, wow. Well, that's really heartwarming to hear actually. What values do you hold the most dear to in relation to the Latin American community or values you still hold on to? Rafael: Honestly, in my opinion, the Latin community or I guess the community that I grew up in, which is was very religious. I went to a Catholic school. Even though I'm not religious, I do appreciate and I do like all the values. Rafael: that he even steal on me. And I think that's one of the most important parts that I would really care about, I guess. I really miss. Interviewer: Oh really? What kind of values? Rafael: Well, you know, just everything about family, just being able to just... I know I say I'm not very community driven, but it's mostly just everyone outside of my family I don't really care too much about. It's just more about my family. Even distant relatives, you know, I want to make sure I have that connection despite being introverted. That's pretty good. Kind of ironic. Well, family and community should always be first. Interviewer: in my opinion. But speaking of that, what would you like to share about yourself or your community that you think is important for people to know about? Important to know? Rafael: I would say if you go to Mexico, you would be surprised at how inviting they are about the kind of person that you can be, especially if you're a foreigner. Rafael: Monterey especially, know, it's it's one of the major cities and starting to become a you know tourist heavy and I really think that people can can go there and learn a lot about our culture and take something from it Interviewer: Yeah, honestly, I feel like the best way to experience other cultures really is through First-hand experience and interacting with the environment itself So yeah, that's such a beautiful culture, honestly. I would love to visit Mexico sometime and experience that culture myself because that sounds very heartwarming for anybody who is within that community and outside the community. What foods do you make that remind you of home and where do you purchase your groceries to prepare your traditional meals? Rafael: The food store reminds me most of home. You know, most people would say tacos, but I honestly would say soups. You know, the kind of soups that we have, would say are honestly the closest tie to my home, like the people that grew up in, like Caddo de Res and all that kind of thing. Like tamales. We have a... Rafael: like my grandma's secret recipe of the coffee that she used to make, which is made with cinnamon. And it was, you know, it was amazing. But personally, you know, I'm not that very skilled in cooking and I never took up the offers to learn some of the secret recipes. So in terms of shopping, I just go to HEV, you know, it's probably one of the better options to get some. Classic Mexican products. Interviewer: Wow. Well, it sounds delicious. I'll make sure to hit up that store so I can get some authentic food and tastes. How likely would you and your family be to use the website we are creating for uploading your stories? And how would you use it? Rafael: I would say this doesn't apply to me because purely that I don't really post anything online, especially about my family. Interviewer: Do you have any other comments or concerns? Rafael: No, I have no concerns at all. Interviewer: Are you sure? Yeah, absolutely. Okay, lovely. Thank you for joining me for my interview. Rafael: Of course, thank you for the opportunity to share my story. No problem. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Rafael Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025-03-24 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 8 min 41s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource Rafael is a Mexican male in his mid-20s who engineers software apps with a team and enjoys playing video games casually in his free time. He has been enjoying a quiet life since moving to Ottawa. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/8806d5ff09e4c161e8d52a74166bc967.mp3 1efde08eb9c0cadb032345f2d117f297 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Rafael Rodriguez Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Dina Kaufmann Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data On Zoom Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound [Dina Kaufmann] 13:56:02 Okay, beautiful. Hi, Raphael. Thank you so much for joining me today. My name is Dina. [Dina Kaufmann] 13:56:11 And I will be asking you a few questions for my interview for my anthropology class with Dr. Laurie Winston. [Dina Kaufmann] 13:56:20 So for the first questions, I will be asking you what is your country of origin? [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:56:26 Hi, Dina. Yes, I am originally from the Dominican republic Santo Domingo, it's also known as Santo Domingo. [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:56:35 And I've been here in Canada for a few years. I will say that i will say I'm kind of like a hybrid right now. Dominican, Canadian. [Dina Kaufmann] 13:56:45 Okay, well, beautiful. Thank you so much. And what has brought you to Ottawa? [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:56:51 It's a long story, actually. My family had been living here in canada for a long time already. And I used to live with my grandmother back in the Dominican and back in 1997, she passed away and as a young teenager, I was living alone in the house and [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:57:12 My mom that lived here in Canada, she said, well, this is not acceptable. You come into Canada and I end up just coming here because I was told to come, basically. [Dina Kaufmann] 13:57:22 Yes, well, it's a sad story but we are happy your are here. Are you happy here in Ottawa? [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:57:28 I am happy no matter where I am. Happiness comes from the inside. [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:57:33 The issues, you can choose to be miserable. You know. I mean, the mind is a place of its own right I don't know who said this. So the mind is somebody said this. And the mind is a place I mean, in it, you can make a hell or a haven or a haven [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:57:52 Or a hell, right? So for me, I try to find the good in everything. And yes, absolutely. I'm happy This country has been a blessing to me. It has provided me with many different opportunities right and actually to say the right [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:58:07 Side of the coin, like anything in life has a positive and a negative but Which is what to look for, right? [Dina Kaufmann] 13:58:16 Yes, 100%. And did you come here with any family or do you see your family back in the Dominican Republic frequently? [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:58:25 Well, I do have family in here. It's not a very large group of individuals, but I do have some families here a couple of nephews. I have a stepbrother, a few nephews. [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:58:42 One of those nephews has kids here. My sister is not in Ottawa. Actually, she was traveling the world. She retired, but she came back now. She's going to be living in Cape Breton And, you know, she's here, my mother as well she's a snowbird [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:59:01 She's my late mother, as you say she's in her 70s now. And right now she's in the Dominican Republic. She lives for the whole winter and then she's going to come back Once they started getting a bit warm. [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:59:11 And obviously my two kids, 9 and 11 years old and they are uh obviously my closest family along with my wife that the has made everything possible. She has held held the this household together. [Dina Kaufmann] 13:59:28 Yes, family is extremely important, especially when you're so far away from from the Dominican Republic. [Dina Kaufmann] 13:59:36 Now, in Ottawa, do you live in a Latin community or a neighborhood where people speak Spanish? [Dina Kaufmann] 13:59:42 And or portuguese and celebrate various occasions with you. [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:59:47 I noticed that, you know, we attract people like us no matter where we go. [Rafael Rodriguez] 13:59:53 And we find ourselves connecting better with those people. Therefore. We find those people. And I remember when I first came to canada back in 1999, I will never hear anybody speaking Spanish like rarely, right? And sometimes I'll be at the bus stop and i hear somebody speaking spanish and automatically [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:00:13 I would approach him just because the fact that we share the same language and I'll introduce myself and the next thing is we create a career connection yes absolutely in my neighborhood, Rahir, I'm here, I wouldn't say that it's a big community [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:00:28 However, just for being around for so long and also by you know the attraction of being around people that are like you, they share your heritage that group started growing. And yes, absolutely. We have a large community in Ottawa. I've made a lot of friends and [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:00:46 And I'm a big believer on community. I am a big believer in community and uh that's part why i'm hosting the Dominican independence day event uh here in Ottawa this year. And there's a couple of hundred people that will be there. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:01:01 Probably the majority are going to be Dominicans, I would say in there. So there is a large community but you have to be actively seeking them out. If you don't seek them out you know uh you don't even know who your neighbor is, right? [Dina Kaufmann] 14:01:16 Yes, 100%. You definitely have to go and talk to people and find out exactly where they are and get to know them. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:01:25 Absolutely. I agree with you. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:01:27 So for my next questions over here, I was just going to ask you what celebrations are most important to you? [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:01:37 To me. And the quarter aspect No, my most important celebration, it has nothing to do with culture I don't think it has to do with who I am and i love christmas christmas is by far my favorite celebration and [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:01:55 I believe it's because it is the celebration that's very similar to Thanksgiving that brings a everybody together uh right and uh have some of the the fond memories that I have around Christmas, you know, they are irreplaceable and that [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:02:09 I try to make a big deal about that. On the cultural aspect of it, I would say there are a few throughout the year, the different times that the In Ottawa that are important. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:02:22 And I'm not… I don't host and I don't coordinate all of them. We have a lot of good community leaders here as well in Ottawa. But I would say the biggest one is the Dominican Independence Day. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:02:35 Celebration that we have obviously we're very proud of our red white and blue flag and uh you know when we present and what does it mean to be an Winnican and all these things uh for example today is uh [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:02:49 Dominican Independence Day, we were just at the city hall there raising our flag and By the way, this year is seven years, seven years anniversary of canada In Dominican, starting the trade agreement and we've been partnering this and we both thrive with benefiting from each other, right? So this is one of them, for example, and then the celebration that we have on saturday [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:03:14 It's going to be a good one. There is another one that's happening on Sunday. It's being hosted by a friend of mine and this is more that one is more tailored for the youth for kids to meet other kids from the same heritage [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:03:29 Hours on Saturday evenings is more of the party we have live bands we have DJs, we have cultural performances and I'm going to be performing there as well, you know, and it's going to be a great event throughout the summer. There are other leaders that do different events. We have an event. It's a Dominican Mother's Day celebration [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:03:49 That's also my good friend Paulina Vasquez here, and she does that by Stanley park usually it's a lot of work she puts into this she puts her heart and sweat and soul into making this happen you know to bring the community together [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:04:02 And because the Dominican independent mother's Day is different than Canadian. So it's the last Sunday of the month and the is always a big event that happens okay so there are other events as well. We have a dominican picnic at us [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:04:17 That's hosted by a group of individuals here in Ottawa. Usually the Vincent Massey Park is around the summertime, probably around August or something like that, July, August. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:04:25 That's a good one as well to take part in and And then we have the event for the whole Latin community, which usually happens in the first weekend of September, just before the kids go back to school. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:04:41 That is usually hosted right downtown this year that just passed. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:04:45 It was hosted at the hosted at the horticultural building right on the Lansdowne park there i took part in that i I put a group together. We did a performance with our carnival with We had a lot of fun as well. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:05:00 Yes, I remembered this actually i have one of my friends, she actually went there to Lansdowne. She said it was a lot of dancing, lots of food, lots of happiness. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:05:09 Yes,. It was a lot of fun. That's the best way to describe it. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:05:16 Yes, 100%. I mean, celebrations are just so important just to be together with everyone and celebrate something that is so important. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:05:24 Yes, totally. I do agree with you. And that's part of what brings the community together. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:05:30 And I find that every culture has something that drives people more than others. With us, Dominican is usually music food and dancing. Those things are easy way to bring Dominicans together. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:05:44 And baseball as well but You know, we're not going to get into sports. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:05:51 That's a whole different topic. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:05:53 Yes, it is. The Dominicans are very passionate about the sports. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:05:58 I'll just say about their baseball. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:06:02 Baseball in particularly? [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:06:03 Baseball in particular, yes. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:06:05 Are you able to describe a typical day in your community? [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:06:11 I was, would you say in my community as a whole for myself how how do I go about on my daily day day to day [Dina Kaufmann] 14:06:21 Yeah, so mostly on yourself. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:06:24 Just myself. Well, for me i uh in a perfect day for me is I would go to the gym in the morning. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:06:33 I didn't do it all the time as i should but i go to the gym very early, six, seven in the morning, so I can just go and come back in time to see my kids, you know, spend the bit of time with them before they just send [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:06:44 Them off to school. Then I go to my office. I have a business. I have a financial brokerage here on Home Club in Ottawa. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:06:52 And I go there and I work throughout the day and the day to day, my business, I help clients, you know, helping them with their any individual finances. This is something that I'm very passionate about. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:07:05 Which I never knew that I was going to find passion in this um because uh you know finances is not something that i uh that I went to school for originally I've taken a bunch of different courses you know uh [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:07:20 Computers has been one of them. Music production has been another one of them. Different things but uh life to basically guide me through finances and uh finances And because it was basically what fit what I was looking for. I was looking to spend more time with my kids. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:07:38 Sounding, this is a bit more personal but something happened in 2012 and I lost my 38-year-old sister to breast cancer. In one year, cancer took her from us and She left a couple of kids and those her kids end up living with me and my wife and [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:07:54 And I believe that was the catalyst to also even talking today, 14 years later pretty much. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:08:01 Because that's when I started realizing what was important in life. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:08:06 You know, in health you know uh family relationship and those things and I never being a shallow person, but I never really put too much emphasis into how important it was to look after your health and to look after [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:08:22 Maintaining those good relationships of the people that you have around you and And tell them that you love them on a daily basis and actually take a second to hug them and You don't know the last time you have know [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:08:33 A conversation with someone in the average person's life is all the good things you know that our loved ones do around us. We just take it for granted. We keep it to ourselves and Just to say to on a podium on a funeral when you're reading the eulogy for them and you never told them usually and i [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:08:52 That's one of the things that I took from that. I would never Like my people, my close friends and family members for granting and i tell them those things. And by the way, it was awkward for them at the beginning when I started telling them this interface i appreciate you for this and this and this and that. And I really mean that. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:09:09 And they'll be like deflecting in our day-to-day is i believe most people are just looking for their bad. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:09:19 Ain't know the good. And people don't get praised enough for the good things they have, like genuine I'm not talking about flattery right here. Flattery is no good I’m talking about like genuinely generally approach them you know tell them hey [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:09:32 I really do appreciate you for this and this and this. I want you to know that. I appreciate that. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:09:37 You do that for me. I believe that was a big catalyst for me. I started in a personal development journey and started doing different businesses. And that's when I created my financial brokerage back in 2015 and You know, almost 10 years later now i am [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:09:54 Serving the community and my focus is focusing on the on the bible community. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:09:59 Immigrants you know just to give you an idea I own it back then. I already had a home on a home. I already had you know financial products, insurance as an investment, but I didn't know how any of it worked. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:10:12 Nobody ever explained to me and nobody was doing that in the community. And that's when the idea came to my mind. Well, wait a minute. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:10:19 If I am in this situation, I wonder how the rest of my community is. And that's when the idea came. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:10:24 And now it's all about serving my community and help somebody you know get those government grants for the kids who has a disability or or you know those bonds for the kids education or When you get to the labor you know a $50,000 check to a person just got diagnosed with cancer and now they know they can't afford the medicine and [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:10:45 Or you deliver a check to the widow and orphan that just lost their loved one, the mortgage is paying and all of that, you know. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:10:51 That's far beyond money. I call those dividends for the soul. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:10:57 So I have a lot of passion about that. So that's what my focus doing my work throughout the day is And then usually I come home and I try to on a perfect day, three, four o'clock so i can [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:11:10 I meet my kids when they come home so we can have dinner together. And then we spend probably an hour on the couch. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:11:17 Watching TV, watching some anime And I think the TV watches me because I usually fall asleep and And then usually I try to do a couple more client meetings in the evenings because we have the power of technology now. It doesn't have to be my office. I can just do it via [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:11:35 Virtual meetings in the And usually I just end up spending a bit of time with my wife in the evening and that's how we try to have an average day. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:11:45 Yes, that's absolutely amazing. You're balancing so much within your life and you're trying hard to be the person that you wish you had when you came here [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:11:57 Yes, I realized that. I understand this now. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:12:04 The single most powerful thing that will help you mature. Is having a child. Nothing will ever ever make you mature as much as having a child. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:12:16 Until i had a child i remember holding him on my arms and that's the first time in my life I'm not a crier. That's the first time in my life I cry out of happiness. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:12:26 I remember that moment. And that very moment right there, I realized it wasn't about me anymore. I should say it wasn't just about me anymore before then i just say. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:12:41 I was the kind of guy, I was kind of like a daredevil Like I didn't care about anything I jump out of planes i've motorcycle race i don't know all these crazy things You know, I was probably the guy that was speeding through a neighborhood in my cars [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:12:59 After that, that was the guy yelling at the guys that were spitting in the neighborhood. Everything changed. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:13:04 Once you have a kid and For me, the number one thing that I wanted to do when I saw my sister pass was I want to spend time with my kids. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:13:12 You know, one year after she passed, my first one was born and I want to spend time with them. And as a chef, I was a chef for 15 years here in Ottawa. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:13:21 I was always in the kitchen. I never saw them. And I did that. And through becoming an entrepreneur and I was able to do that. I was able to quit my job, you know, become a full-time, a part-time entrepreneur, but the income was good enough [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:13:35 Was able to take him both out of daycare and basically because before I was working to pay somebody to raise my kids. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:13:41 But with the part-time I was making you know just not much, like 30 40000 dollars part-time But I wasn't paying 20,000 in the daycare So it's basically the same income that I was making as a full-time chef. And I did that for [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:13:56 Over seven years, I wanted to teach my kids how to be a strong, kind, confident man and And to be provided to the world. I'm a big legacy thinker. And I know that everybody's trying to control what other people are doing when I know that's impossible [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:14:11 Everybody has their own way of thinking. But how you can change a world is by how you handle your own household how my kids would treat their wives the way they see me treat my wife My kids were going to have work ethic, probably the way they see me work. My kids are going to probably treat a neighbor the way they see me. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:14:30 They're going to interact with the community the way it's not do, as I say is uh is that they will do what they see me do. And by the way. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:14:41 A thought here. Your kids are probably going to do 100% of everything that you do run and probably about half of everything that you do right. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:14:51 Go right to that. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:14:53 Yes, I think that's absolutely amazing what you've done with your kids. I mean, it's definitely very important for them to see a dad that's working very hard and is treating his wife right and he is doing he’s putting so much effort into the family. I think it's absolutely incredible. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:15:10 Thank you. Thank you. For me, I believe the My reward in all of this is when I see them. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:15:20 When I go to any public place. My kids are the only one usually allow it to come to places Because they know they're the only kids that are respectful and not destructive. For me, that is the biggest compliment you can give me. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:15:37 Well, Rafael, thank you so much for joining my interview today. I really appreciate everything that you have told me. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:15:45 You have been incredible. You have been so amazing with me. Thank you so much. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:15:50 You're very welcome. You're very welcome. And, you know. If you come to the Dominican, you're going to really enjoy our foods. You're going to enjoy our music. You're going to enjoy our more than just the sun and the sun, the sun and the sun, you know, you're going to enjoy the rich culture. And there is a community for that in Ottawa. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:16:08 Yes, I'm 100% very excited to visit Dominican one day and actually go into the city And see how everyone is with each other. [Rafael Rodriguez] 14:16:17 Amazing, amazing. Thank you so much, Dina. [Dina Kaufmann] 14:16:19 Of course. Thank you, Rafael. Thank you. End of recording. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Rafael Rodriguez Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025-02-27 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 20 min 17 s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource Rafael Rodriguez is a Dominican-Canadian from Santo Domingo who moved to Canada in 1999 after his grandmother’s passing to join his family. Now living in Ottawa, he actively fosters the Dominican community by organizing cultural events, including hosting this year’s Dominican Independence Day celebration, which features live music, performances, and dancing. He values community connections and has seen Ottawa’s Latin community grow over the years despite the absence of a sizeable Latin neighbourhood. Significant celebrations for him include Christmas, Dominican Independence Day, Dominican Mother’s Day, and community picnics. Passionate about music, food, dancing, and baseball, Rafael also works as a financial advisor, a career he pursued after taking various courses. A pivotal moment in his life was losing his 38-year-old sister to breast cancer in 2012, which led him to prioritize family and a meaningful career. His dedication to community and culture makes him a key figure in preserving Dominican heritage in Ottawa. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/453c0d3c8733006d5259625e3a25a0c4.mp3 38aea55ef02f508e9cbec377721c5406 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Rommel Molina Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Carolyn Phidd ;David Bahufite Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data In person Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Carolyn: Hi, everyone. I'm Carolyn. David: And I'm David. Carolyn: We're gonna be interviewing Rommel today. Rommel: Hi. Carolyn: And just really asking him about his community and where he comes from. So first, my first question is when did you immigrate to Canada and what brought you to Canada? More specifically, Ottawa. Rommel: Because the family immigrated in 1988. We well, we're not really immigrated. We were political refugees. So, really, we didn't wanna be here. We're just forced to be here. So in 1988, we migrated to Canada. And then we've been here in Ottawa ever since. Carolyn: So you immigrated from where again? Rommel: Nicaragua. Carolyn: Nicaragua? Okay. And who did you come here with? Rommel: It was, my mother, my brother, sister, and, and and one cousin. Carolyn: One cousin? How old were you? Rommel: Yeah. I was 13. David : 13? How was the process of immigration? Rommel: How was the process? Well, the that was a communist country. So at that time, unless you have money, you were able to to buy your way out in a way. David: Mhmm. Rommel: So thank God my parents worked really hard. And, and at that time, my dad was in jail. So we have to leave the country. Carolyn: Without him? Rommel: Without him. Because yeah. Like, we're put as a political refugee. So we we suck aside aside. Asylum. So and then Canada was open. It had the open borders. So and then my mom went to the capital of Nicaragua. And then within a week, we we're flying to Canada. Carolyn: Perfect. Rommel: It was weird. I said it was not. I was not happy. Carolyn: But were you eventually happy when, like, after a few years coming here? Rommel: It took me it took me about two years to adjust to actually stop asking my mom when I'm when are we going back home? When are we going back home? Until she says until my dad came over and says, you're Canadian now. Get over there. So we did. David: What did you think about the weather when you started? Out there. Rommel: That was the best part. Carolyn: You love the cold? Rommel: Yeah. Because we came 10/22/1988. And October 23, it snowed. Carolyn: Really? Rommel: So when we woke up, there was, like, white snow. Never seen it before. David: Did you liked it right away? Rommel: Loved it. Loved it. Carolyn: How long did it take for your dad to come over? Rommel: Took him maybe about six months maybe. We have something like that. Six months? Yeah. Put it apart. Because he was still in jail. Like, he took some they they let him out on probation and then took him back to shoot that and we left. And then he went back to jail, did his term. Carolyn: And Have you ever been back since? Rommel: Yes. I used to go frequently. But then, the last time I went was 2017 with my kids and the family. My sister, kids, and family. And then that was the last time we went because there was, another revolution. So then we couldn't go back again. Carolyn: Did you go to the back? Rommel: I haven't been back. Carolyn: Do you plan to? Rommel: Oh, yes. Of course. Carolyn: Once it's, like, safe? Rommel: Once I'm allowed to go back. Yeah. Carolyn: Were your parents able to go back as well? Rommel: No. No. Yeah. None of my family members. We are not allowed to go back. Carolyn: How were you able to go back? No. I mean, like, before 2017. Rommel: Yeah. Before 2017, yeah, we were able to go back and enjoy ourself there. But after 2018, April '2018, we're not allowed to go back. Carolyn: Because of the revolution? Rommel: Yeah. It is, like, it's a communist country. So when you speak against the government, then you put you put you in a blacklist. Yeah. So since I spoke a lot about against the government, I'm in that list. That means that my my family, my my dad, my mom, my kids, they're that list. That's too bad. It is. Carolyn: Yeah. I'm sorry. But since you've been in Canada, have you found, like, a good community? Rommel: Oh, I love Canada. Canada is my home. I was home. Yeah. Yes. Carolyn: So have you found, like, a good community of, like, people, like, maybe, like, from your country or from, from, like Yes. Rommel: The community, unfortunately, like, Nicaraguan community, because of the political, the the political Climate? Climate in Nicaragua, is hard. It's very hard. Like, I I don't know. Communism, you know, that that mentality. So they pin people, family members against family member. Mhmm. You know, like, I have family members that they support the Sandinistas and I have other family members that they support another different. And so they can't even communicate with each other. I have cousins that don't speak with me because I speak against the government. So it's hard. It's unfortunate. Yeah. So that's why the community here, there's, like, some like to talk to each other, some don't they hate each other. So it's the community is very divided, I'll tell you. Carolyn: Is it like specifically, like, Nicaraguans or, like, also just, like, anyone from, like, South America? Rommel: I can tell you what because I've been here for so long and I know all the community members from El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico. I can't speak for them, but I know that the Nicaraguan community, we're not a a Tight nit community. Yeah. We are a divided community because of the political the political how the the qualities in Nicaragua are. Carolyn: What do you think should happen for anything change? Rommel: Oh my god. That's a Complicated question. You see, like, the government of Nicaragua, they've been in in power for over forty five years, not forty three, forty five years. So it's it's it's a dictatorship, a family dictatorship. Like, the president of Nicaragua is the president. His wife is the co president. Mhmm. So she gets a vice president, and he gets a vice president. So the son is in charge of economics. So he's in charge of any business around the Nicaragua One. He's in charge. So the whole family, the oldest son is in charge of the radio. Yeah. The oldest son is in charge of TV. The other the daughter is in charge of tourism. So that's I just mentioned six. All of them are head of the main, and then they they they have the power and the army. So they have a lot of power, and then the police. So so Nicaragua is in like a jail that kinda Yeah. Yeah. Carolyn:There's no room to move to, like, room for growth. Rommel: There's no room for opposition. You oppose the government, then you either go to jail or something might happen. Mhmm. Carolyn: Despite, like, all of that within your community, do you still feel like you're able to, like, celebrate within, like, some parts of the community? Rommel: Oh, I do. I've been doing I've been doing events for that for as long as we've been here because, it was installing us from the beginning as kids. The community, like, we used to celebrate each other a lot. Like, we have events. Carolyn: And what sort of events? Rommel: Okay. So we have the, the Latin Fest every year. It's been going on for more than twenty years now. And, I started in a Catholic church, and then we go from there. So the Mexican community, Nicaragua, all these communities we get together and then we celebrate the Latin, Latin heritage. Oh, okay. And then there's one coming up in April the 5th that is, we call it a tamale festival. Because in every culture, every, like, Latin American culture, corn is a big part of our meal. So we make this meal that is called tamale. So in every, every country, like, from Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, we all make the same tamale, but different flavor, different flavors. Carolyn:Different ways? Rommel:Yeah. Different ways. So we celebrate then. So it's coming April. Carolyn; How often is it? Like, is it once a year? Rommel: Once a year. So we celebrate the first festival of the year here, and then the last festival is in September, the first September, at the September is the Latin Fest that we celebrate at Lansdowne Park. And so every community, they bring their flags. Carolyn: It's one day? Rommel: One day. Well, last year was two days. So this year, we're not gonna make it try to make it two days. David: What country has the best, tamale? Rommel: Nicaragua. Hands down. Like, we won two times, no joke. Two years in a row, we were rewarded by the people. David: Why is it so different? What's the flavor of the other kinds? Rommel: I tell you through that, I I would say that gastronomy was that's what you call food. It's so different in every country, but it's all it's all the same. And I I know It's just a certain way. Something that is why it's better than me. I’d say my moms is the best. That's the best. Yeah. Carolyn: That's so fair. David: You miss the food from your own? Rommel: If I miss it, I just call mom. And she lives in Toronto. Okay? So I go to Toronto just to eat, and then I can't. Just when I miss it. Carolyn: Would you say it's easy to, like, access food from your home country in Ottawa? Rommel: Oh, definitely. Yeah. Like, there's a lot of, like, markets and stuff that They they you go to? Not market because, like, let's say, like, a Jamaican Jamaican market, they might have products that are sold in Nicaragua. We have the same. Yeah. You know, so there's a Mexican supermarket. They sell all the the stuff from Central America. So at at one point, there was only one. Like, in 1988, there was only one and it was everybody used to order. And now there's so many of them here. There's, like, I can count 10 of them that you can buy stuff for you to eat from different countries. David: Is the food the same? Because I have a French friend and who used to say that, like, the pain baguette here. Like, they're not the same as in France. Like, in France, they're lighter. They're better. Yes. Is there, like a difference, Rommel: Oh, definitely. Yeah. Yeah. Definitely. Look. Like, when you make, let's say, the tamale. You know, the tamale over there, they make it with plantain leaf over here. They don't make them plantain leaf because because you don't have access. Have access to both cut contain it. They wrap it with, like, tin foil. So it's still good, but they give it a little taste. So the the taste do change. Yeah. Yeah. Like, cooking, we like, let's say wood in a fire, open fire, then cooking in that in the kitchen. Then you get the taste. Yeah. Carolyn: What are some values that you hold most dear, like, as a member of the Latin community? Rommel: Family value. Carolyn: Family? Rommel: Yeah. I would say family value. That's very strong in our community. Family comes first. Every Sunday, we will get together. We have like, last week, we have tacos. Last Sunday, after church, we have dinner. We have to celebrate something. Birthdays, always Christmas. So it's family. Families are big, everybody for us. Carolyn: What would you say is something that you would you want most people would think is most important for people to know about your community? Rommel: Well, we work hard, as you can see everywhere. So I I I think a lot of us I have a lot of Canadian friends that I grew up here. And a lot of us are, I think, misunderstood. I find that a lot of us are misunderstood. And, yeah. So what would I want the people to know about us? That we like to party. That's for sure. And then we're fun, friendly, and we know how to have fun. That's basically it. Carolyn: Yeah. Very good to know. Alright. I feel like do you have any more questions? Is there something that you wanna talk about? David: Yeah. Is there anything you wanna add? That you think we we missed that we should have covered? Do you wanna share? Rommel; Well, if you guys tell me what the whole, what you're trying to accomplish just by people knowing what the Latin community is all about? Carolyn: Or Like, a little bit. We just wanna kind of shed light on personal like, experiences from different, like, cultures within the Latin community and just, like, what that kinda looks like. Rommel: Well, I can tell you that the group that that I belong to is, like, the community that we build that I belong to. We are very close to each other. Carolyn: What area are you resident in Ottawa? Rommel: It's right here. Carolyn: Like Like Like like? My kids grew up, like, five minutes from here. So Like, right here. Yeah. Right here. I grew up ten minutes, fifteen minutes on Donald Street. Ovenia. Yeah. Right. So it's yeah. I all all the community is from around this area, most of the Latin community. And then, we do create a lot of, events for us to to for the for all of Canada to see. And, what can I add? I don't know what to add. Carolyn: You don't have to go on anything too, but if you feel like that's good. David: You told me earlier you are a carpenter. Rommel: Yes. David : Was it hard to find a job when you first came in ottawa? Rommel: Most of that, my skills, because I came here at a early age, like, at 13. All I know about carpentry, I learned it from French people. Like, I grew up among white people. Mhmm. When I said that my dad came here and says, well, you're Canadian. You gotta become Canadian. Then I I kinda accepted it. I was like, oh, yeah. I have to accept it. So then I started learning how to snowboard, ski, skate. Like, I'm the Latino that teaches white people how to skate, how to do the snowboard because I do tricks and I jump and I do all this. But I learned this at 14 because I was, like, doing the canal every every in the winter, I would come to the canal, take the bus, and and go skating. So I used to love that. Carolyn: Would you say it was, like, easy to immerse yourself then, or did you feel like people like me judged this? Rommel: Oh, it was very hard. Carolyn: It was hard? Rommel: Like, in my time, it was a lot of racism. And just to tell you, there was a lot, I went to Lester .B High School, Lester.B High School, and there was 1,200 students. Those 1,200 students, there was only 50 of what? I mean, 50 black people. Carolyn: They're just not white people? Rommel: Yeah. There was only between the black people and the Latinos. There was only 50 of us. And we have to fight. I fought a lot because I was bullied a lot. I was very quiet, very timid. I never picked a fight, but I finished fight because I I have not sure if it's after they kick you so many times, you have to defend yourself. So, yeah, it was hard. Even carpentry, when I when I first became wanted to become a carpenter, I went to, to apply. Mhmm. And they said, no. We only hire within house. Within house means that they only kept they only wanted, like, the white people to become a carpenter. Like, they keep us they try to keep us down. And I always felt that way. Carolyn: But you were able to break through? Rommel: Oh, yes. But, like, yeah. We we will break you break through barrier by my work ethic. Like, I've been able to while they put me down. But then when I went to the highest, I was the boss of 20 white guys And I've been telling them what to do, and I'd be like, wow. Now I'm on top. You start at the bottom, but then you go all the way to the top. It's about how hard you work. So I've been able to do that thing a lot. David: Would you say that, like, these experiences, like, shaped you into the man you are today?. Rommel: A 100 %. And I teach that to my kids. this is why I am involved in that in the what I do. Like, I mentioned the Nicaraguan community is not that tight so I do these events, kind of like me being here because I want my kids to be able to always remember the culture. I wanna make my mom and my dad proud because they sacrificed so much to come here. Mhmm. You know, like, over there, we're not rich, but we're, like, in the middle. In Nicaragua, my mom's a teacher, and my dad's an accountant. And they sold everything to come to Canada, and they became janitors. You know, that's a big sacrifice. So I do this for them, and I bring my whole family for them. Like, if you guys go on April, well, I should ask if you guys do, I'll keep you posted. David: I actually will.This sounds delicious! Rommel: You have fun, music. Yeah. Yeah. So yeah. And this is what and I have my mom's coming from Toronto. My with my dad. My brother's coming from Toronto. It's three kids. My sister's coming. She's gonna participate with three kids. And all their girlfriends and boyfriends, they all come. So, you know, like, my mom, there was only three of us that came here. Now my mom has 12 grandkids out of all that. Oh. So that sacrifice, you just It paid off. Carolyn: Yeah. But would you say now you're proud to be Canadian and you feel, like, genuinely immersed in it? Rommel: I'm ready to fight Americans. Hundred percent. I love my Nicaragua for giving me birth, but Canada is my country. Definitely. Yeah. I feel like, Yeah. I feel like we can end it there. That was pretty good. Carolyn: Yeah. Do you have anything else to share? Yeah. If you guys have a good day, it's pretty good. Yeah. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Rommel Molina Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025/03/13 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP4, 19min 48s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource Romel Molina is a Nicaraguan immigrant and political refugee who moved to Ottawa, Canada, in 1988 at the age of 13 to escape Nicaragua's communist regime. Initially eager to return home, Romel eventually embraced Canadian society. Although he and his family visited Nicaragua frequently until 2018, political instability has since prevented their return. In Canada, Romel found a sense of belonging within the broader Latin community, although he notes a divide between the Nicaraguan community and his own extended family due to political disagreements. Passionate about community involvement, Romel actively participates in events like Latin Fest, drawing inspiration from his parent's cultural engagement. He talks about the upcoming Tamale Festival on April 5th, celebrating Latin American culinary diversity. Romel is also dedicated to preserving his Nicaraguan culture within his family and instilling that into his children. Rommel reinforces through the interview the importance of family and work ethic to himself and his community. His story highlights the vital role of family and community within the Latin diaspora and how each cultural group contributes to Canada's rich diversity and evolving national identity. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/0f8ac39c385cef8ce1872a0db33aa168.mp3 55e5e5d90cb99ef311d8d6e8c8bdc971 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Saelle Pierre Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Stecy Leconte Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data In person Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound STECY LECONTE: Hi, my name is Stecy Leconte and I am here with Saelle Pierre. She is 23 years old and apart of my Haitian community in Montreal, Quebec. She came here when she was seven years old with her parents, her big brother, while her mother was pregnant with her younger brother. Hi Saelle, how are you? SAELLE PIERRE: Hi Stecy, I'm good and you? STECY LECONTE: I am fine. I would like to ask you a question about your Caribbean heritage and your community here. SAELLE PIERRE: Sure, let's do it. STECY LECONTE: Okay, so first question, where were you born in Haiti exactly? SAELLE PIERRE: I was born in Port-au-Prince. STECY LECONTE: Oh, so the capital. SAELLE PIERRE: Yes. STECY LECONTE: Okay, what brought you here to Montreal? SAELLE PEIRRE: So, I was living in Haiti and my dad was somewhat politically involved. Because of that, we received some threats to our lives and we had to leave the country to seek for asylum in Canada. So, that's what brought us here in Montreal in April of 2009. STECY LECONTE: Okay, and when you came here, did you have family here? SAELLE PIERRE: I didn't and still to this day, I don't have any blood relatives. But, you know, people from the community, friends we've made along the way that now are family-like. STECY LECONTE: Okay, do you live in a Haitian neighborhood where you speak Haitian Creole normally? SAELLE PIERRE: I do not. I don't live in a Haitian community, but I have, I go to church on Saturdays and my community at church is mostly Haitian people. So, I can find myself speaking a little bit of Creole at church, but not too much. But, there's a lot of songs, sometimes the preacher will be Haitian and they'll, you know, they'll speak Haitian Creole throughout the service. But, that's where I'll say in my community I speak the most Creole out of the house. STECY LECONTE: Okay, and what celebration from your Haitian heritage is most important to you? SAELLE PIERRE: I would say January 1st. It might be a bit cliche, but it's, you know, the Haitian Independence Day. So, we drink the Soupe Joumou to commemorate our ancestors and their bravery. So, a little history, maybe background, like in 1804, they, my ancestors, fought the white colons and the soup was something that was forbidden to the slaves. So, now as a gesture of freedom and resilience, we now, we know like we can drink this soup too. So, it's important as it is a very like impactful event in Haitian history and it's like a small token of remembrance. Something I definitely want to pass down to my children. STECY LECONTE: Okay, that's very great. So, can you describe me a typical day in your community? SAELLE PIERRE: I don't know if there's a typical day in my community, but I will say maybe for Saturday, today, wake up, probably go to church, the gym, come back home, take a nap, eat, and then the day goes follow. I wouldn't say there's like a typical day in my Haitian community that's like, I don't know, particular to Haitian people. STECY LECONTE: Okay, how do you celebrate your heritage? Like on a regular basis, like how do you celebrate it? SAELLE PIERRE: I think, how do I celebrate my heritage? I think by trying to excel and to be authentically myself in the spaces where I can be, you know, to remember that I am my ancestors wildest dream and I am Haitian always and forever. And, you know, maybe try reading some books from Haitian authors. I, you know, read some books on the revolution from some Haitian authors, like I know Daniel Laferrière. He's a prominent author in the Haitian community. Maybe Haitian dish that I can try and learn from my mom, but I feel like I've been saying this for way too long. And maybe listen to some Haitian music sometimes. Maybe that's how I can celebrate my heritage the best. STECY LECONTE: Okay, that's good to know. What are some values that you hold most dear as a member of the Caribbean community? And if more specifically, Haitian? SAELLE PIERRE: So I would say Haitian people are very resilient people. Strength is valuable. Solidarity is valuable. I think even in our flag saying, it's something about in unity, there's strength or something like that. And courage is a value that I hold dear. Authenticity and just our cultural pride, like Haitian people are like one of the proudest people I know. So that's something I still hold. And I don't know, it runs through my blood. STECY LECONTE: That's great. I'm very, very happy to hear that. What would you like to share about yourself or your community that you think is important for people to know? SAELLE PIERRE: Something, I don't think it's about my community, but maybe about me, that being an immigrant, I think it's important because often as immigrant, it's somewhat hard to kind of fit in with a new culture. But it was also something about not being able to, I entirely relate to the culture back home. What is home and that does shape your world vision and somewhat you as a person. Like if I talk to my cousins that might be still in Haiti, they have a different maybe world vision than what I have here. But maybe sometimes, let's say my parents, because they came here much older than what I was. I was seven. So I had time to change my mind frame and be more assimilated to the culture here. But if you listen to how they talk, even they're still different than my cousins that are still in Haiti, that are much younger. That could be my age. But because they still grew up there and they still live there, they see the world differently. So, I think sometimes we might be ashamed of the stigma that comes with being an immigrant or being an asylum seeker, but it also makes us who we are today. STECY LECONTE: Well said, well said. What food do you make that reminds you of home and where do you purchase your groceries to prepare your traditional meal? SAELLE PIERRE: The food, I would say today, I feel like the food, the ingredients we need to prepare some of the cultural food are kind of pretty much everywhere. Sometimes, I will say though, when it's January 1st and we do have to prepare the soup, the past few years I've kind of been on duty to get the ingredients to get the soup together. And there's also, there's like some ingredients. It's now, it's my mom makes me go to like four different stores and I'm on like, like a baby on the phone and I'm like, I can't find it. And she's like, pass me the phone to somebody that can help. And it's like, you know, sometimes they don't know, we don't know the words. Like it's the same ingredients that we, that other cultures use, but we don't know the words. So they sometimes all go through different stores. Like I don't go to like the main stores, like Loblaws or like whatever. You have to go to like the ethnic stores. Sometimes it's not necessarily Caribbean, but it can be like Arab store or like Asian store. Yeah, Asian stores or like a Latin store. Some of the food, there's Haitian mac and cheese, there's plantain, you know, there's different kinds of rice that we have, rice and peas or diri djondjon even for that, the key ingredient is like mushroom. So it's like dried mushrooms. And sometimes, well, not sometimes, but it's not on the grocery store that we typically go to, but you have to go to like a certain specific store to get the ingredient from, to make the rice. So yeah. STECY LECONTE: Okay. And like you said, that you need to go somewhere specific. Do you have somewhere specific that you go to, to get those ingredients in Montreal or because I know you live in the South shore. So do you have to travel far to go and get what you need? SAELLE PIERRE: Oh, well, not, not, not anymore. I'll say maybe probably maybe 10 years ago when we just moved in the neighborhood, probably yes. But I still remember there was still this local Haitian store that actually would sell these things. But nowadays I must say, and even in the South shore, there's more stores where they have like more ethnic stuff. And I think that's kind of what led us to kind of go to a different ethnical store. Like sometimes you won't find it, you won't find a Haitian store, but you'll find like a, I don't know, a Mexican store. So they have some similarities or you'll find like a Haitian store that has what you need. But I will say like maybe 10 years ago, for sure, maybe you'd have to go to Montreal to probably get some of the ingredients. I remember we, we just got like a, the meat store in the South shore. At first we had to go like to, I don't remember the street name, but you had to go before in Montreal to go get that. STECY LECONTE: Well, thank you so much Saelle for giving me your insight of how you connect to your Haitian community. And yes, this was a nice conversation. Thank you so much. SAELLE PIERRE: Thank you for having me. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Saelle Pierre Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025-03-15 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 10min 33s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource Saelle Pierre is a twenty-three-year-old who profoundly values her Haitian heritage and strong family bonds. She immigrated to Canada in 2009, an experience that shaped her appreciation for both her roots and her new home. Raised in a close-knit household, she was taught resilience, unity, and the importance of cultural identity. For Saelle, family extends beyond blood ties, encompassing the broader Haitian community, with whom she shared traditions and fostered a sense of belonging. She is passionate about preserving her heritage and ensuring future generations remain connected to their culture while embracing new opportunities in Canada. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/5ad549dba295ce8c1022ba040088b756.mp3 e7ed192ea892a25d05b82313946d0a9e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Sandra Carranco Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Jaspreet Basi ; Rony Matni Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Rony Matni: [00:00:00] Hi, my name is Rony Matni Jaspreet Basi: and my name is Jaspreet Basi. Rony Matni: And we are student in anthropology at the University of Ottawa, anthropology of Latin America and the Caribbeans. And today we have the pleasure of interviewing Sandra Carranco. Jaspreet Basi: This interview is a part of an ethnographic exploration of Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean communities, where we aim to gain a deeper understanding of cultural heritage, traditions, and the lived experiences of individuals within these communities. Jaspreet Basi: Sandra, thank you for taking the time to share your story with us today. We're excited to learn about your background, your journey to Ottawa, and ways in which you celebrate and preserve your heritage. Let's get started. Rony Matni: So let's start with our first question. Um, so what is your country of origin? Sandra Carranco: I am from LA Pass Bolivia, south America. Jaspreet Basi: Perfect. What brought you [00:01:00] to Ottawa, Sandra? Sandra Carranco: Uh, well in my twenties I immigrated to Mexico. The political situations that my father was involved in politics in the sixties in Bolivia, and then I moved to Mexico and I went to university there. I have a degree in physiotherapy and a PhD degree in physiotherapy for with respiratory problems. Sandra Carranco: Then I work there. And then I got married there in Mexico. I lived there for 12 years. Then, um, we had a great life with my husband in Mexico, but the economical situation for some people that they start to rob people and that happened to us in our house. They robbed us [00:02:00] and it was scary. Then we decided to move and my brother-in-law was, is married with a Canadian woman and he says, oh, I am moving to Canada. Sandra Carranco: Let's go to Canada. Because it's hard to take care of our kids and this economical situation that they takes our money, it's better to move. Then I was, no, I am not moving to Canada. Uh, I have here my work at university, at my, at the office, and I know that if I go to Canada, it will be hard for me because my English is very poor. Sandra Carranco: Then we decided to move back to Bolivia. Then my husband and my two kids, we moved back to Bolivia. We. There for four years, but unfortunately, you know, because of my father Political's view, he was assassinated. Then we said, this is scary, and my brother-in-law was already living here in Ottawa. Then he says, no, come, come to Canada. Sandra Carranco: Then we decided we apply and we had our um. Uh, visa, our resident visa. We apply in, in LA in Bolivia, and we got our residency. Then we came with residency here to Ottawa and we joined my two brothers-in-law because at that time, my two brothers in law were living here and it was great because it. Nice to move to a new country and have family. Sandra Carranco: Then for us was easy. My husband, my husband was able to find a job, but for me it was difficult. Because I knew that it, it will be very difficult to go back to my physio in Bolivia. I was a professor at the university too. I have my own office, but we said it's risky and safe to live there. Then I said, okay, I have a new start and I have, my children were young. Sandra Carranco: They were five and seven years old. Then I said, okay. I will be here learning English, and I start to take English lessons. Then I met, I met in my English lessons with some, uh, Latin women. We get together. It's nice, but I, I had this comfort of having my, my sisters-in-law, my brother's in-law here. It was easy then. Sandra Carranco: Mm. Uh, I start working as a [00:05:00] breakfast lady in the school where my kids, uh, were assisting at Holy Cross. Then I said, no, I have to go back to university back. I love my physio. Then it, it was hard because then I think it was 2002. That all the high tech here in Ottawa was failing and my husband was working in high tech then we were without jobs. Sandra Carranco: It was hard. It was not easy. But then we were resilient and we went. We did what we did. Now I work as an educational assistant for the Ottawa Catholic School Board. I love my job. I am not a physio here, but I use my knowledge and I love to work with, uh, children with disabilities. Then it is a blessing to work with them. Sandra Carranco: Um, my mother and my sister came from Bolivia to live here. Then I had a great support family and when my kids were young, it was great to meet other Mexicans families. And then my brother-in-law and a group of Mexicans, they decided to have, uh. Uh, Spanish school for our kids because we had a lot of kids. Sandra Carranco: [00:07:00]Then the University of Mexico, they have here a building where they teach Spanish and they open the doors for us to teach our kids Spanish and Mexican history. Then we, I joined that group of parents, my kids every Saturday were receiving Spanish lessons and, uh, his history lessons. Then it was great to be part of that community and, um, we love it about that. Sandra Carranco: Then, um, I, uh. With my mother. My mother was a social person, and uh, she was old. I, right now I am 60. Then my mother was in her eighties when she was here, but she loved to have people around her. And we find a group of Bian, the Bian community here, where are we from? And we joined that group. And that group became our big family because I am married with a Mexican [00:08:00] and I live in Mexico for 12 years. Sandra Carranco: But it's different when it's your own culture, your own people. Then, um, we joined the Bian community. We are few people here, and then my mother was always inviting the ladies to her house because she loved to cook and she was most of the time by herself at home and we were working. She had her own place with my sister and then. Sandra Carranco: One of the ladies in our Latin community, uh, told us, oh, why we don't play the Bian game called Paku. And I said, oh, I remember when I was young. Maybe my aunt was the one that was playing a pasanaku . And what is pasanaku , a game from the [00:09:00] Andes. We are from the Andes community. We're from the mountains in Bolivia, but in reality, in Bolivia, everybody plays this game. Sandra Carranco: And it's a game that pasanaku , that indigenous world means passes between us and, um. And I said, oh, I don't know the rules of this game because I left young, not as an adult from Bolivia, and this friend explained me the rules and say, okay, I will organize this group of women. Then I called the women from my community and I said, Hey, I will organize Sandra Carranco: I am organizing this game called Paco. And um, do you want to join? And this game is based on trust because money is involved in this. Then, um, the ladies came to my place and um, we decided, I [00:10:00] think this group was started nine years ago and uh, I think we started with $50 or $30. Then the of. Is really based on trust, but is a social event more than the money. Sandra Carranco: And then every, um, we get together and we draw the names of the people that want to play the game because it's the whole year. It, it's not, uh, one time then it, it is with commitment. And then we draw the names and the person that gets the first name, she hosts a dinner, and then we all bring the money and that person receives the money of the people participating. Sandra Carranco: Then after [00:11:00] dinner, we decide to draw again. Then the next month, then we decide really that. We do a draw and every person is assigned to, um, a month, then we get together once a month and we give our money. But this, it is a win-win situation because we receive our money when we are award, when it's our turn, but instead of the 30 or $50 we receive. Sandra Carranco: 300 we're 10 participating people. It, it's an interesting game, but the most important part is the social because we host the dinner and we try to do bivian things, things that reminds us from our country or things that we usually don't eat every day. And because we are now 14. Women playing this game and we get [00:12:00] together and we are from different parts of Bolivia, then it's interesting to know what they eat in other parts of Bolivia even. Sandra Carranco: We are from the same country. We get together, we, we eat, and we usually invite our kids too. If they want, my kids are old, they will not join. But this group, we have people that is in their thirties and my mom that was in that group, she was in her nineties. The needs a diverse group and Sandra Carranco: we. We created this group because the majority of the women, they don't have families here. Like I was lucky to have my Mexican family, my mother and my sister here, and, but they, all of them, they don't have families here. [00:13:00] Then we became a big great family. We love each other, we respect each other, and we never had problems and. Sandra Carranco: How I get involved because of that, because we like it to, to be involved. And I was always volunteering to, to the, uh, there was, when I arrived, there was already a group of Bian, the bian community, but it was a little bit, um, different because no one. Uh, the problem is that a lot of people lives Bolivia because of political problems in the sixties, and then it was a group a little bit difficult to join because they had their own political views, very strong political views.[00:14:00] Sandra Carranco: And then we were like, are we in that kind of group? Or we want a, a group that everybody, um. Everybody thinks about our heritage. It was a mix and at the end we, my husband got involved and it was interesting because of this political views, the leader of our community, no one not, no one wanted to be a leader of the Bolivia community. Sandra Carranco: Then my husband as a Mexican, he says, oh, I will be, because before we had, uh, the wife of one of our friends, Bivian friends, a Canadian, she was the leader of our community, a Canadian woman. And sometimes we laugh about that because she had her own views, but. [00:15:00] They were Canadian views, views as a Bolivian. Sandra Carranco: Then my husband joined the group and then, um, it was more a Latin group now, and then we decided with this group of friends that we decide we had the paku. We said, we don't need a leader for these things. We want to get together. We wanna dance to eat our food. Then my sister. Um, another woman, Elia Ru Ris and myself, we decided to be the leaders of our group and we decided to will not ask money for the group. Sandra Carranco: And we, we organized two events for our BIAN community. The. Bian Day, that is in August 6th and for Christmas, we organize these two events. One is outdoors [00:16:00] that every, we usually get together at the Vincent massive park, or we go to a park and everybody brings food and we get together, we eat, we dance, and everybody goes back home and we don't judge anyone that is. Sandra Carranco: If you have potatoes to bring to the, to the party or you don't have anything, you are welcome to come. And we created this very strong community. We are like 50 people. But counting our husbands that are not bolivians and we help each other and we have a Facebook group that, um, if people need help from the Bian community, we are there to help. Sandra Carranco: We have a WhatsApp community that people can ask. [00:17:00] And um, on December we have this Christmas party, but. It is a wonderful party because we have a woman, Maria Teresa Boso, that she loves the dances and she teach the kids dances and they perform. For us, but because we are like a family, we join the party. Sandra Carranco: The we, we usually go to a, a community center that they have a stage. Then the kids feel like stars dancing with the Bian costumes and we, we love that. Sandra Carranco: Do you have any questions because I didn't stop. Jaspreet Basi: That's okay. Thank you for sharing such an amazing story. Um, actually, Ronnie had one of the questions that he wanted to ask. Rony Matni: That is right. So first of all, wow, that's a very, very interesting [00:18:00] story. Thank you so much. So you mentioned that you do have family here in Ottawa and Canada in general. Rony Matni: So do you see them frequently or No. Sandra Carranco: Uh, yes. Yes. Mm. We get together, um, once a month for the birthdays. We usually get together for the birthdays and, um, they, but they are my husband's size, the Mexican size. Okay. And the bian side. Unfortunately, my mother and my sister, they passed away in the last five years. Sandra Carranco: Then they were my only bian family here. But not only I am wrong because my cousins that I grow up, we grow up together in Bolivia. They live in Toronto. When I feel homesick, really bullied, I'm homesick. I [00:19:00] grab my car and I go to Toronto, and usually we go four times a year at least to see them. Jaspreet Basi: Wow. That is, that is really cool. Jaspreet Basi: Um, and I know you mentioned that you live obviously in Ottawa through your story, but do you live in a neighborhood or a community that is Latin where people speak either Spanish or sport Portuguese and celebrate various occasions? Sandra Carranco: No I don't live in a. Community. Rony Matni: So next question. Um, so what celebrations are most important to you and are they celebrated in Canada? Sandra Carranco: Yes, the, the, I mentioned you that we have as a community to celebrations [00:20:00] and it's the Bian National Day. That is in August 6th. But, um, our government change in the last, uh, 20 years and they have a new date that it's, I think March 24th, uh, because we, we had, uh, indigenous president and it was good because he included all the communities in our country. Sandra Carranco: But the truth, because we. Came here. We don't celebrate that day. We only celebrate the August 6th. And that reminds us, um, and in Bolivia, they celebrate August 6th too. And remind us all the festivities that we have on that day because it's a very civic. Event, and we [00:21:00] remind us when we were young, where we will go to March with our uniforms and the food that they give us. Sandra Carranco: Mm-hmm. Then we celebrate that and at Christmas to get together because the majority of us, we are Christians, but the truth, our group have different religions. But we celebrate Christmas. Rony Matni: Perfect. Thank you. Jaspreet Basi: What are some values that you hold dear? Um, you hold most dear? As a member of like the Latin and Caribbean community, Sandra Carranco: uh, I think we bring, um. We love to live in community and we live to trust each other and we love to be together.[00:22:00] Rony Matni: Perfect. So I know you said a lot already about this, but what would you like to share about yourself or your community that you think is important for people here to know about? Sandra Carranco: Um, well I have two children and I love that they both speak Spanish fluently.Because we come from a Spanish speaking and I want them to. Sandra Carranco: Go to Bolivia or Mexico and be able to know how we act in our country that it's different here. Like, um, sometimes they feel shy because in Bolivia when we greet, we give the person a kiss, even if, if you don't know that person. And then I, wow. They are like, no, but that's our culture because we trust people. Sandra Carranco: It is a trusting thing even when you greet. [00:23:00] Then, um, for me that is important that my kids know our roots, how we act or why we have these thinking that it may be different than other people, or why we have these values or why it's important to us to take care of each other, take care of our parents. All those things are very important for me. Jaspreet Basi: Thank you. What do you, what foods do you think remind you of home and is there anywhere in particular that you purchase groceries to prepare traditional meals from specifically? Sandra Carranco: Yes. Now we that the, we, we have a. Very open, uh, market Now that we can find foods that, uh, remind us of our countries. I usually go to [00:24:00] the Latin stores. Sandra Carranco: There are Mexican Latin stores that we can find, and Peru is a big country with, uh, a lot of food, heritage and Bolivia and Peru. One day we were the same country. Then we say we. A lot of the food that we eat in Bolivia, they eat in Peru too. But we have our own food of course, that it's different and, um. Sandra Carranco: Some of them, we can't find it. And we have a special pastry, it's called Nia. It's an empanada filled with, uh, meat, meat and vegetables. And it's, um, cooked in the oven. It's, it is, um. A pastry that eats juicy. It's not a dry feeling then it's hard to make [00:25:00] because the dough has to be very special to hold the juice of the empanada. Sandra Carranco: Then we are, we're fortunate that people likes to cook and we have, uh, excellent, um, person that cooks those for us and we buy from her, from our community. And, uh, another food that we can't find here in Canada. We eat, uh, dried potatoes. It's called Juno, and they are dried in the Titi kaka that it's called. It has a special process and it's, um. It's a different taste. And in Bolivia we have 300 varieties of potatoes then with a lot of potatoes and they are different. [00:26:00] Mm-hmm. Is that question. Rony Matni: Yeah. So you've shared a very beautiful and profound story about your life, your family's experience, and the challenges that you faced along the way that we will be uploading to our website. Rony Matni: So how likely would you and your family members be to use the website you are creating for uploading yours and many other stories, and how would you use it? Sandra Carranco: Mm. I think it's interesting to have this website not only for us. We already are here. Maybe we will not use it a lot, but it will be a good link to say to the young people in our community that to learn what we brought here, what brought us here, and how we share our heritage.  Sandra Carranco: But I don't [00:27:00] know if I will. Yes, I will use it with my community. We will put in our, uh, bian group. Then if someone is interested, it'll use it. Rony Matni: Perfect. So Sandra, we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experiences, insights, and perspectives with us today. So your story provided valuable understanding of the Latin American and Caribbean communities here in Ottawa, and we are very grateful for the opportunity to learn from you. Rony Matni: But before we wrap up, is there anything else you'd like to add, perhaps a final thought or message you'd like to share? Sandra Carranco: Um, I would like to share that, um, we are a vibrant community. We have people from different, uh, economical with different, um, views [00:28:00] that we came from our country and, uh, we invite them to go and visit our countries. Sandra Carranco: They have beautiful natural resources. Um, and I would like people to, to don't see Latin American, like a third world. I don't like that because we have so much natural resources. Maybe not manage perfectly, but if people goes to our countries and visit us, it's wonderful. Jaspreet Basi: Oh, once again, thank you for your time and being a part of our project. Jaspreet Basi: We also want to extend our gratitude to our professor, Dr. Lori Weinstein in the University of Ottawa's Anthropology Department for guiding us in this important discussion. And we hope this conversation contributes to a greater understanding and appreciation of the rich [00:29:00] cultures and traditions within Ottawa's, Latin American and communities. Jaspreet Basi: Thank you. Rony Matni: Thank you so much. Sandra Carranco: Your welcome Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Sandra Carranco Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025-03-10 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 29 min 13 s Description An account of the resource Sandra Carranco, a Bolivian immigrant with a PhD in physiotherapy, relocated to Ottawa from Mexico due to political instability in Bolivia. Encouraged by her brother-in-law, she sought safety and economic stability in Canada. Despite initial challenges like language barriers and professional setbacks, Sandra adapted and became an educational assistant. She is deeply committed to preserving Bolivian culture in Ottawa. Sandra co-founded a women’s group that plays Pasanaku and organizes cultural events, including Bolivia’s National Day and a Christmas celebration, emphasizing inclusivity. Sandra uses food as an essential vessel of her cultural heritage, seeks ingredients for traditional dishes, and passes cultural values to her children. Sandra’s story illustrates the resilience of Ottawa’s Latin American communities and her desire to change perceptions of Bolivia and Latin America. Language A language of the resource English https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/918ab05d88fa0bd9bd2ba4524de11db3.mp3 96953fb1679c4efeb0f03cd66d7f98d9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Taryn Ayton Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Adrian Machado Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data On Zoom Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Adrian: 0:00 In recording progress, okay, I think the recording has very so we can get started on I just sent you over the questions so that way there was no surprises. So thank you for doing the that ethics form, which I have, I need to also sign myself. But anyways, um, so let's firstly, do you want to know a bit about the project to kind of just start? So basically, this project is for my anthropological studies in the Caribbean and Latin America. Basically what we're doing is that we're interviewing people in Canada that are from those continents. And basically we're going to take their stories and put them all into one website so that way people can view it, experience, learn, and it's overall, going to be this incredible, beautiful thing. So I have a partner. He's he has actually done another interview. So this is my interview with you. And yeah, we're gonna get started with the general introduction. So here we have, like, what part of the Caribbean are you from? What brought you, you and your family to Canada, and how much family do you have here living in Canada with you? From the Caribbean? Taryn 1:27 Feel free to introduce Speakers 2 1:29 Okay, so my family's from Jamaica, and majority of our family is now either in Canada or the United States, mostly being in Canada. My mom has eight siblings, and I believe three of which are still in Jamaica. But the rest are here. Actually, the rest are Unknown Speakers 2:01 sorry. Let me do quick now, three in Jamaica, Speakers 2 2:07 or here, one in America. Speakers 1 2:10 And this kind of diving a bit deeper. Where in Canada would you say most of your mom's siblings are located in throughout Ontario, throughout Ontario, and I can seem closer to Toronto. Yes, yeah. So for this project as well, we were looking for people from Ottawa, but I wanted to particularly tackle the GTA area, because I feel like there's a huge Caribbean culture there as well, and I think that's very lovely. And for the one that is in the US, where are they from? Where are they located right now, in the US? Speakers 2 2:51 I don't think he's there legally, so I don't know. Unknown Speakers 2:57 Well, you know, it's the experience. Speakers 1 3:01 Who knows, but totally cool. I'm so best aware about that. So let's get into the community and heritage part. Um, so do you live in an area where a large Crimean community, what language, slash vernaculars are spoken, and do you speak or understand any of them? Unknown Speakers 3:19 Okay, so Speakers 2 3:22 being from Richmond Hill, no, but being slightly north of Toronto, yes, if you understand what I mean, I do. I do because, like living in Richmond Hill, the the Caribbean culture is absolutely zero, but driving just like 15 minutes south into Toronto, it's huge, right? And I do not at least Jamaica's dialects patois, which is English. It's just broken English. I don't speak it, but I completely understand it. And it's honestly, so funny, because it's something I grew up with, and it's something I've always, like, understood before. Whenever my mom is speaking Pato in front of me, and my friends are around, and they don't get it, I'm like, but she's speaking English. No Speakers 1 4:15 exactly. I feel that actually, when I'm looking up and like, reformatting the questions I put in the notes here, Pat was because I was like, obviously, but I think that's really cool. Like, what are kind of some of the words that like stick out to you a lot? Or what are some very common sayings? Um, Speakers 2 4:35 common sayings. My mom doesn't use common sayings because she doesn't. I feel like a lot of parents have their go to sayings. My mom doesn't do that. She has a go to look for every situation. Unknown Speakers 4:53 I love that. Honestly, Speakers 2 4:56 it's actually really funny, because the other night, I'm like, Hey Mom, I'm going out and. She's, like, Unknown Speakers 5:04 iconic, iconic, um, not. Speakers 1 5:09 And I think that's like, really, really cool that we're looking at podcasts in different vernaculars. Um, anyways, what are some notable celebrations when? Which ones are the most important to you? Okay, Speakers 2 5:23 so I did look at that question and I'm like, Hmm, nothing really differs, because Jamaica is a very like Christian country, right? So typically, everything we celebrate here is celebrated there in the aspect of faith, but they do have carnival, which we would look at as Caribana or Toronto Caribbean carnival. But a lot of people don't realize they're completely different times during the year. So Carnival in the islands is typically right before Lent. Oh, so a carnival time just actually passed, and carnival there is completely different to what we do here. Like, Unknown Speakers 6:16 have you ever seen like a holy celebration? Speakers 1 6:18 I've no holy celebration. I have definitely seen, like, a couple videos of, like, the parades and whatnot, and like, the kind of pageant aspect of it, okay, yeah, Unknown Speakers 6:28 they do that too. But Speakers 2 6:32 with Holi, it's an Indian celebration. It's a lot of colors, and they're, like, bright colors and like, pinks and stuff they do that during Carnival, like balloons. It's like paint filled balloons. And so it's like a mixture of holy and Caribbean carnival as we see it here, like kind of mashed into one. It's actually really cool. Speakers 1 6:57 And that's like a very huge part of the Caribbean as well, because there's so many different types of people that are coming together. There's so many cultures that are being represented, if you will. And I think your point about like Christian holidays, I am curious, in comparison to kind of prison holidays here in Canada, what are some, I guess, unique aspects that, to me, kind of brings to those cultures, any particular foods or traditions that might differ or unique. So Speakers 2 7:29 for Easter, I know, like here during Easter, we're not supposed to do the whole meat thing, but there during Easter they typically just, it's just fish and then spice, bun and cheese. Okay, that is food for Easter. That's it. Nothing more, nothing less. Speakers 1 7:48 I think one thing that my family does is, of course, garlic pork for Christmas. I'm not sure if you do that as well. I think that's a Guyanese thing, right? But no super cool. And I think the different types of foods is, honestly, the food is incredible. Like, that's really, yeah, the food is incredible, incredible. So, um, there's kind of two questions here. Um, how do you celebrate your heritage and what values do you hold most dear to you that come from your community? And those might be kind of odd questions. So yeah, do you have an answer for that? The insight, um, Speakers 2 8:29 sorry, could you repeat the first one? Unknown Speakers 8:33 The first one, how do you celebrate your heritage? Unknown Speakers 8:37 Honestly, I don't Speakers 2 8:41 in the aspect that being Jamaican is just like a celebration in itself. Because, like, I feel like when you're Jamaican, everyone knows you're Jamaican. I've quite literally been told you look, Jamaican. Speakers 1 9:01 Would it what does that mean? Exactly? Bucha, Unknown Speakers 9:05 who knows, but Speakers 2 9:09 as the most like known Caribbean island, like, when people hear you're from the Caribbean, they go, Oh, Jamaica, Unknown Speakers 9:19 right. So I don't Speakers 2 9:21 really celebrate being Jamaican, because I feel like it's a celebration in itself. It's like Speakers 1 9:30 every day almost. It's like a huge part of who you are. And I think that's a very interesting perspective. It's it's different. And I not different actually. I think it's unique, and I love it honestly, so kind of moving on to that second question, what are some values that you hold that come from that place? Unknown Speakers 9:51 Okay, well, my mom Unknown Speakers 9:53 always instilled in me family Unknown Speakers 9:58 and I. I have Unknown Speakers 10:01 a huge family. Speakers 2 10:04 So I have five brothers, sorry, four brothers on my mom's side, and then my dad has 12 kids. Unknown Speakers 10:12 Huge family, huge Speakers 2 10:14 family. Um, so I've always been taught to be there when I can be but like also not to exert myself for the good of others, but I like to always try to be there, at least for my siblings. Speakers 1 10:32 That's incredible, because there's so many of them, little army, little army, Unknown Speakers 10:40 my dad could have two basketball teams. Speakers 1 10:44 Honestly, I think that's very incredible. Are Muslim and tall? Speakers 2 10:48 Oh yeah, oh yeah, not a single short one. Unknown Speakers 10:53 Genes are strong. Unknown Speakers 10:56 I mean, other than the seven year old, Speakers 1 10:59 makes sense. But we'll give it a couple years, we'll give it a couple of years. Um, no, and I think that's super cool. I think actually the aspect of family is, I mean, that's really huge in the carina as well. I think as a stem from that as well as, um, respecting elders is a very huge part of that. How are you can do you feel connected to that part? Is I value your bold um, Speakers 2 11:22 so I feel like respecting your elders is very instilled in Caribbean children. However, in this day and age, I feel like we've come to a point where we've learned to stand up for ourselves. Because it's one thing to respect your elders, and it's another to completely sit there and accept being annihilated, which 90% of the time is exactly what's being done to you. Speakers 1 11:54 I see it's very, very interesting. So looking at the next question here, would you like to share? Sorry, what would you like to share about yourself or your community that you think is important for people to know? Speakers 2 12:12 Nothing specifically about myself, but not every Caribbean is Jamaican. Unknown Speakers 12:18 No. Speak on it, speak on it. Speakers 2 12:21 And I feel like that's something so so many people get so offended. Because, like, when people are like, Oh, my God, you're Caribbean, you must be Jamaican, it's like, no, there are so many countries in the Caribbean, and like other other Caribbean countries, just feel so looked over Unknown Speakers 12:44 because of Jamaican. Speakers 2 12:45 And as a Jamaican, I'm sorry, but we are the center of attention. I understand that. But there are others. Speakers 1 12:54 There are other you want to give Friday. You want to give praise. Exactly, interesting, very interesting. I love that. And I think we touched on this question kind of beforehand. But what foods remind you of your home, and where do you purchase your groceries to prepare any traditional meals if you cook Unknown Speakers 13:21 so? Danforth food market, Unknown Speakers 13:24 Danforth food market Speakers 2 13:27 and things that remind me of Jamaica, per se, ackee and salfish. I love a good ackee and selfish, which, honestly, I didn't realize until I spent the summer there when I was 10. But that is a breakfast food, okay? Because I, yeah, I always grew up eating it for dinner, because that's when my mom would make it. But it's a breakfast food. Breakfast Speakers 1 13:54 food, and sorry, the ackee and saw fish describe the meal a bit more. So  Unknown Speakers 14:01 ad is Jamaica's national fruit, Speakers 2 14:05 but it needs to be cooked, because if it is not cooked, it can be poisonous. Oh, yeah. And then the salt fish is, I think it's cod fish, but salted. Okay. So then you have to boil off, like majority of the salt, otherwise, like it, like it's inedible because of the Unknown Speakers 14:27 amount of salt, Unknown Speakers 14:30 high sodium, high sodium, yep, Speakers 1 14:34 sounds like it, um, out of curiosity, like, Are there any particular like, desserts or any kind of spots that you can find in Toronto or Ontario that really like hit home for you. Unknown Speakers 14:49 No, I can't say so, because Unknown Speakers 14:53 I've never really been one for Jamaican desserts. Speakers 2 14:58 Honestly, most it's like. Black cake and then pudding. And it's not like, yeah, it's not like a westernized pudding. It's like a it's like a cake, per se. But Unknown Speakers 15:12 I do love black cake, Unknown Speakers 15:13 but I make Speakers 2 15:14 my own. So absolutely I don't have any recommendations on that aspect, and I have tried to make in restaurants. However, couldn't recommend any of them either, because I can't say anything is better than my mom's cookie. Speakers 1 15:34 I think, I think a parent's cooking, a grandmother's cooking, even it will surprise any restaurant really, exactly up until the grandmas decide to open up their own truly, um, but no, I think that's like, very interesting. Black cake is also really good. I I've had some myself, um, I would grab it by the slice and eat it, um, and I don't think my parents knew, but we don't tell anyways, so kind of moving on to the last section here. Apologies, we're looking at the project questions. So I told you a bit earlier about the website, and I just want to ask you, since this interview is part of a larger project to tell the stories of Latin American and Caribbean Canadians using a website that displays this information. Does this sound like a concept that you would be interested in, or communities in Canada would be interested Speakers 2 16:35 in? I would definitely be interested in it, because I feel that there are a lot of Unknown Speakers 16:42 first gen Speakers 2 16:44 Canadian children that feel neither here nor there in the aspect of you're too Caribbean for the Canadian kids, or you're too Canadian for the Caribbean kids, and just someone that falls in the middle. I feel like it could be very intriguing for like, finding more people like you that can relate to you, whereas you've just been living in a state of Unknown Speakers 17:14 purgatory, in a way, Speakers 1 17:19 absolutely, I think that education, it would bring a lot of education, and would really help to bring a huge asset of history. I'm not sure if we've talked about it as of now, but Toronto, especially Caribbean people, have contributed an immense amount of culture, and even, like the Toronto man accent, a lot of that is just a Caribbean accent. And I think that would be a huge part actually, you know what? Like? Let's speak on it. Um, you've obviously been to Toronto. You're in the GTA, um, how have you seen Caribbean people like influence the culture? Speakers 2 17:58 So, um, I would say that they are a huge influence. However, they are definitely disappointed in the Toronto man action, because 90% of them feel like they're just being mocked. First off, secondly, none. None of those Toronto mans actually sound like that. Speakers 1 18:17 Yeah, no, the one thing on the Speakers 2 18:21 internet, yeah, it's awful. It's so bad. It's It is, yeah, and they're making, they're making a mockery, and they don't care. And I find it so funny and entertaining, but I understand how people are offended by it. Speakers 1 18:40 Yeah, it's something to it's, yeah, it's, I'm not sure, to laugh uncomfortably or to laugh at them, like, what are we doing? It's, you know, what? Lock it up. Truly, I think the most shocking part is when I hear a trauma and accent come from someone in Ottawa. Oh, no, yeah. Um, you know, especially when they are a young child who grew up in, like, suburban Ottawa, it's like, what are we doing? Why? Um, but that's, that's a whole separate conversation. Um, going back to the website for a moment, how would you use this website? Um, I think we kind of already touched on that. But what are some ideas that you personally would contribute to the projects? Unknown Speakers 19:28 I feel like adding, Speakers 2 19:32 like, not a dating app aspect, but like a find a friend aspect, you know, to be able to see, like, if this person's nearby, maybe, like, make a friend. Speakers 1 19:44 Networking, exactly, networking, connecting communities. I think that would actually be really cool. So you want, like, from this website, not only for a place to be educated, but also to connect people a variety. Of cultures sound about right? Yeah, and we can shed light on other Peruvian countries as well. Right? Absolutely, absolutely. And do you have any final comments, questions or concerns that you would like to ask about the project or at all speak your mind, truly? No, we're all good. Okay, well, I think with that, thank you so much for being a part of my interview today. This has been an incredible experience, and I hope that maybe when we get the final project all finished up and done, you'll be able to see it for yourselves. I think with that, we can end things off. Have a good day. Right turn. Thank you so much. Okay, no problem, bye, bye, bye. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Taryn Ayton Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Conversation with Taryn Ayton Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 20 mins 46 s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource This interview with Taryn Ayton by Adrian Machado is a part of a project for anthropological studies in the Caribbean and Latin America. Taryn is a 21-year-old Jamaican Canadian university student living in the GTA area (Richmond Hill). She is a long-time friend of the interviewer and provides a unique perspective on Carribean identity. The interview covers various aspects of her heritage and identity, such as celebrations, traditional foods, and values. Taryn hopes that her contribution to this project will enrich Canadians’ knowledge of Caribbean stories and bring members of the Latin/ Caribbean community together. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/e2af389d6f3d5ed18b0445ae15e02c12.mp3 46c64a718d77ea3aa245df02d8375658 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Latin American stories from Ottawa Description An account of the resource Ottawa, Canada's capital, is home to a richly diverse community. This reality makes Ottawa great. However, it can also make it difficult for Canadian citizens, residents, and newcomers to know where to start when looking for a community. For the winter 2025 Latin America and the Caribbean class, we endeavoured to inspire our students to explore this diversity through ethnographic interviews. Over thirteen weeks, our students interviewed friends, family, and Ottawa's Latin American and Caribbean community members and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate goal is to create an archive of stories that the Latin community can access at any time, preserving knowledge and promoting their cultures. We invite you to browse the stories collected by our students, listen to the audio recording, and read transcripts and biographies of those interviewed. Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Interviewee The person(s) being interviewed Uribe Dominguez Interviewer The person(s) performing the interview Jennifer Tenasco; Ryan Lafleur Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data On MS Teams Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound Ryan Lafleur [00:00:00 ]: I'm Ryan Lafleur and my classmate is Jennifer Tenasco. We're students in Professor Weinstein's class on Latin American anthropology at the University of Ottawa. We're interviewing Uribe Dominguez, who is a leader in Ottawa's Dominican community, as part of our final research project. Let's jump right into it! Ryan [00:00:20]: [We wanted to know about where you] come from and how that shapes your experience in the world. So, if you’re ready- [00:00:26 Uribe Dominguez] So – wow. My name is Jose Dominguez. The community calls me Uribe. I came to Canada in 2000, wanted to be a priest. Sacerdote. I came to see the pope John Paul II, Juan Pablo Segundo en Espanol. [Spanish: he came on a 6-month visa initially for a period of 15 days. In those 15 days he saw a future where his family could prosper, in Canada. From a family of 10 siblings, his father died when he was 8. In Canada, he contacted his mother and said he was staying.] I called my cousin to say you have to come to Ottawa because I can't drive over there. So, remember, I just came for 15 days. So, I thought I forget everything, I came to Ottawa, stayed with my cousin. And that day I started to work. Every Friday they gave me $300. We're talking about 2002. $300 is a lot of money at that time, so every time I got the $300, I sent some to my mother. I gave some to my cousin to help with the house, you know. So, at that time, I met some girl. I still go to the church, but at that time this girl, [her name] she didn’t believe in Jesus Christ. [Spanish]. Didn't believe in Jesus Christ. So, we get married. She told me you have to go back to Dominica if you want me to help you. I say wow, how are you gonna help me? Because I get a lot of money here. And in Dominica, you don't get nothing. I don't know. Well, [she said] I work for the […] embassy. And I can’t get a boyfriend with no papers, so I start to study English. I know, I didn’t pay too much attention, so I went out to, like for two or three months in the Dominican. And then we get married. I go back 2004, 9/26/2004 – our anniversary. And then I start - then she gets pregnant. A baby comes now, she was 20 years old. Baby comes – so after two years together. We said, you know what we decided separate. Because I go every day. Every Sunday I go to church, I go to Granby, Pembrooke, every city, Montreal, I go to represent my community. In Ottawa, I go there to represent the community and the church. But she told me, oh, she doesn’t believe that. And I continue working hard for the baby. I tried to go back to the Dominican because when you don't have family at all here, or somebody to support you, it's like if you go in an airplane when it goes down. And then my mother said, no, you have to stay. You have to see your baby grow up. You have to be a man. At that time I was 27. Was 27 and now am 48. It’s more like 21 years ago. Something like that so, I say OK, so I stay here in Canada. Been in Ottawa for 10 years. I don't know, never [learned] the name, of my neighbor. I don't know if he talks or if he doesn’t talk because sometimes, I tried to say hi but he [is as responsive] as a cow. I was still here in Canada, still in 2006, I was still working for the Community. I made a Team, baseball team. That way we can go to Montreal, Toronto, Boston. From 2006 We go to Boston every May and [undiscernable], during some holiday here. So, we go there from 2006 to play baseball, to have fun, to meet some Dominican people, they come here to Canada in Labour Day in September. I celebrate the Independence Day from the Dominican Republic, on Mother's Day. I try to secure a lot of festivals for the community. I even had a diploma from the Prime Minister Trudeau. I have a diploma for different organizations. They gave them to me for the little jobs I do, you know. Sometimes I meet a lot of people on the street they don't even have home where I go. So, I bring them to my home. I try to find a place even in my car. I say OK, you can stay in my car for two nights in my parking over there, be quiet, because like I said, the first time when you arrive here, you want to go because you don't know nobody here. What do I say about my daughter, she's 25 now. She goes to college on the plane. She studies criminology. She works part time at the Parliament in the cafeteria. La vida is not easy. It's not easy. Like I said, say you want something, you have to work hard. Even when you have to do the task, if you don't know how to do the task, if you don't go to the right people, it's a problem, a big problem. Ryan [00:06:53] You know, you covered a lot of the bases, so I'm just going to go over the list and probably a lot of them will already be answered from what you said. You're from the Dominican Republic, right? [00:07:11 Uribe] Yeah. Ryan [00:07:13] Yeah. And you came to Ottawa for – to – [00:07:20 Jennifer Tenasco] Become a priest. [00:07:21 Uribe] Yeah, to become a priest. Yes. [00:07:24 Ryan] To become a priest. [00:07:26 Jennifer] Were your children born in Canada? [00:07:30 Uribe] Yes, all of four. Yes, [they speak] English, French, Espanol. Yeah, all three. Yeah. [00:07:35 Jennifer] Oh wow. [00:07:37 Ryan] I have a hard enough time with English and French. [00:07:40 Jennifer] Yeah. [00:07:42 Uribe] Yeah, it's not easy, believe me. I went to Gatineau. Ten years, 10 years ago, and more. It's not easy. Oh my God. [00:07:52 Jennifer] And you're part of the Latin American community. [00:07:56 Uribe] Yeah. Latin Americans community, yeah. From 2003, I represented the Dominican community. [00:08:04 Jennifer] Oh, that's cool! Do you have any celebrations? [00:08:08 Uribe] Yeah. Last week we celebrated independence. We had to do it twice because we did it one time with the community with around 250 people, 55% Dominican and the 35 from El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico. We have people come from Montreal. They come in like around 12 people coming there and they are not Dominican. They are Mexican. Yeah, because we that's the point. We try to know more, [not just] Dominican. [00:08:41 Ryan] [Which values] do you hold most like close to your heart, I guess, as a member of the Dominican community in Ottawa. [00:08:52 Uribe] The value of the of si siente is part of this community. It's big. Because when you see the Dominican people close to you, just the feeling in the heart. You feel the song. You feel, you know, you’re not alone in Canada, you know, because the Dominican people have something in common. Now, I called three people. Now, I call them and say, listen, I need rice, beans and plantain. And they bring, here, they bring right away. If I call and I need $1000 they gave me the $5000. Because we are close, the Dominican people. When we say I'm friends with you, no matter what. I'm friends with you. So, when I start to working with this community, I go to Toronto. I go to Montreal. And I don't want to say, but they're looking at me like I'm the boss. I'm not political. I don't like politics. The value, si siente, there again being in the community. It's like a feeling in the heart. And this winter, believe me 250 people in this party. Around 40-45 children. …She said my kids they don’t speak in Spanish, you know what I mean. So that's why I say my kids will speak Espanol and learn English. You know, because I told them you have to learn. I know in Canada we have a lot of opportunity, a lot of opportunity everywhere. Or like I say, when I'm close to the Dominican people. I don't know. I don't know if people know me every time I go to some activity, I go like looking like a flag of the Dominican Republic. I say thank you to Canada for everything they gave me, but I had to work a lot. I have to work here now, believe me. It's not easy. It's not easy when you have to pay the rent, to pay the insurance, the car, to pay the food, to do this and then you don't have to. You don't work at all. It's not easy. Let me tell you a story. [skip] [00:11:33 Ryan] …And I wouldn't even call it a story, because it's truth, right. It's your life. [00:11:37 Uribe] Yeah, it's true, I have friend, he said to me, from the Dominican, he said he’s gonna do a book with my life. We’re working on it. [00:11:49 Ryan] So, what kind of food do you like to make or that that your family makes that like that reminds you of the Dominican Republic? [00:11:59 Uribe] Here we don't eat, we don't cook anything Canadian. Every day in the morning we do tostada. Toastada is bread, it’s like a Dominican sandwich, we call it tostada. And pankun, Peso Harmon. You know. It's like a sandwich or we call tostadas every morning we do tostadas. Farina. I don't know if you know farina. It's like a – you know the corn? The maize, corn, the yellow. [00:12:34 Ryan] Yeah. [00:12:35 Uribe] We buy it in Paro la cabena, you know like. Chalk. Something like that. Flour. You know, we do flour with milk. And we're cooking that. We give it to the kids. I mean, rice and beans. We call it bandera. And now we do a lot of plantains, Frito Platonos and Cachao Mangoo. You have to buy the mangoo. You know? Mangoo. Oh, no. [00:13:10 Ryan] Like the fruit mango? [00:13:13 Jennifer] Oh, mango. [00:13:13 Uribe] Mangoo, mangoo. Do you know – do you know mashed potato? Mashed plantains, mashed plantains. [00:13:18 Ryan] Yes, ok. [00:13:23 Uribe] We call that mangoo. Yeah. Not mashed potato. It looks like a potato. Mashed plantain. And you put salami, you know salami, yeah. [00:13:41 Ryan] Salami. [00:13:41 Uribe] Yeah. [00:13:42 Ryan] Where do you usually shop for ingredients? [00:13:47 Uribe] International market it's in Montreal Road. International market. They have everything from Latin America. It’s a couple of Mercado Latinos. In Ottawa, Montreal Road. [00:13:56 Ryan] So, we're going to move on to question 11, trying to be mindful of the time. But that was a great answer. How likely would you or your family be to use the website that we have to upload the interview? So once the interview is published, essentially how likely would you be to look at what we published, when we post on it? [00:14:32 Uribe] You're gonna get like a lot of people. They wanna – I didn't even start to do it this morning. People start to call me. When will it go out? [unable to discern] So like I said before. A lot of people in the community they don't meet. I spoke with some of them already. And they want to know. [00:14:51 Ryan] We have one last question and it's essentially; do you have anything at all that you would like to add? [00:14:58 Uribe] Oh, what [do] I say to all the students. I am a student, I'm 48. Don’t ever give it up, you know. [00:15:09 Ryan] We want to take this time to thank you. For the hour that we spent together, thank you for sharing with us. [00:15:11 Jennifer] Thank you. [00:15:18 Uribe] And I thank both of you and see you soon! Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Conversation with Uribe Dominguez Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025-03-12 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource MP3, 15 min 45 s Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource Uribe Dominguez is a devoted leader in Ottawa’s Dominican community, and this interview details how he got where he is today. Born to a family of ten children in the Dominican Republic, Uribe started his life wanting to become a priest, so much so that he travelled to Canada to see Pope John-Paul II once he was an adult. Initially arriving on a short visa, Uribe saw Canada as a place full of opportunity for those willing to work for it and decided to stay. Eventually, he met his wife, and they had four children, raising them in Canada. Uribe takes great pride in the fact that his children are trilingual and speak English, French, and Spanish. Still a devout catholic, Uribe found that church was a valuable way to celebrate his community and soon represented Ottawa’s Dominican Canadians at functions all over Southern Ontario and Quebec. To this day, Uribe cherishes his community and wears Dominica’s colours proudly. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/3a07da49fa48ba7397e67f1651acb4bd.jpeg ff777575741dcaff6e0e27315cea3768 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Cropped Black T-Shirt Subject The topic of the resource This is a go-to shirt of University of Ottawa students as it neutral and used in very common outfits you would see University of Ottawa students wearing Description An account of the resource This black t-shirt can be found amongst all ages, genders, and lifestyle groups found at the University of Ottawa in 2025. This object is so particular because it crosses barriers allowing diverse groups of people to relate and ease themselves with common fashions. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Aritzia LP Canada Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2022 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Aritzia Canada Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource This shirt all black and is made of 57% cotten, 38% polyester, 5% elastane and it is size large. It fits slim and close to the body and it is intended to go down to the waist. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical-object - clothing Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context #68755 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant This item can be found at Aritzias stores across the country and on their online store. Aritzia LP 611 Alexander St. Vancouver BC, V6A 1E1 Canada Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Aritzia BayShore 100 Bayshore Dr Unit Cc5a Ottawa, ON K2B 8C1 Canada Curated by: Amina Demirdache-Grace; Lilah Hurtubise-Gates; Evelyn Maclver; Faith Mackay; Rebekah Slack Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Aritzia https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/96cb37318a9c04ef2315fae96b4aed0d.png b926f122d7ebaf2167e9bbca93ac0995 https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/03dd34ddd439374afe899e0f4c510e77.png 95731d6ff7c1612b0d4f8cf35de13412 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Physical Object An inanimate, three-dimensional object or substance. Note that digital representations of, or surrogates for, these objects should use Moving Image, Still Image, Text or one of the other types. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Hilroy 1 Subject Notebook Subject The topic of the resource Notebook Used by students for coursework, notes, and studying Description An account of the resource Hilroy Lined Notebooks offer students an opportunity to study away from their electronics and write notes, complete assignments and study by hand. While manually writing notes and coursework is no longer the mainstream method in University, many efficient studying and note taking techniques can only be done with pen and paper! Returning to old methods never fails and many students choose to create a hybrid study plan using both devices and handwritten notes. Hilroy Notebooks are the go-to for students offered in many colors and sizes perfect for any class! Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Hilroy Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Can be found online at <a href="https://www.bkstr.com/ottawastore/product/ots-every-chld-mtt-orang-sm---837173-1">University of Ottawa Campus Store</a> Or Sold Right on Campus at the Boutique Campus Store, University of Ottawa, Jock-Turcot University Centre, 85 University UCU, Level 0, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5 Or on the Hilroy Online Store- <a href="https://accobrandscanada.com/brands/hilroy/">Hilroy® - ACCO Canada</a> Curated By- A. Brown Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Hilroy ® 2025 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Date Purchased 19/11/2025 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Hilroy® 2025 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Hilroy 1 subject notebook, 3 hole, 200 pages. Wide ruled white paper with margin and 3 hole punched. Fits into binder. Size 10-1/2 x 8 On Campus Availability- covers available in assorted colors: navy, red, green. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical Object Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context MMS008392775/0 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Sold Online or In-Store, Hilroy Notebooks have a variety of Uses pertaining to school, work, or personal use. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/7862b1d754fdd73bfafa7ae0e58b749c.png 4ebb67a74ed6f702eefde50e7945999c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Laptop Stickers Subject The topic of the resource Personalization, customization, accessories, stickers Description An account of the resource A sticker is an image that is sealed between plastic or vinyl, and some sort of adhesive so it sticks (hence the name stickers). These stickers are then placed on laptops, notebooks, or water bottles, as a form of non-verbal communication between students. Usually, these objects are used to convey information to other people in their "groups," for example people who enjoy sports might use a sticker with their favourite team's logo to convey to other sports fans that they too like sports. These stickers can be bought online or homemade. Homemade stickers are usually made using parchment paper, tape, and whatever image one would want to make into a sticker, much like commercial stickers, yet way more personal to the user, as there is the connection of making it. Many people opt to leave their laptops blank. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Stickers can be acquired from various retailers, or handmade. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Found on laptops, notebooks, or water bottles, etc. Curated by: Jasmine Dicaire; Isabella Eccleston; Charlotte Fox; Raven Roberge; Nicholas Schenk. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource All photos taken with consent of classmates, for the purpose of this exhibition by Jasmine Dicaire. Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource vinyl or paper covered in plastic, with adhesive typically 0.5”-5” Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical – Decor Decor Physical https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/7df3fde1cdb40386676e41004d611d8e.jpeg 4ce941845b2997798cda9ebd9f138ba6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Levi’s Blue Jeans Subject The topic of the resource Popular name-brand pants, worn often by University of Ottawa students Description An account of the resource An invention for the American worker became the uniform of progress. Worn by miners, cowboys, rebels, rock stars, presidents, and everyday men and women, these functional pieces were the clothes people not only worked in—they lived their lives in, too. - Levi's description of their product The gen z uniform, what university of ottawa students tend to wear to go anywhere, class, clubs, shopping, etc. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Can be acquired at: <a href="https://www.levi.com/CA/en_CA/clothing/women/jeans/loose/baggy-dad-womens-jeans/p/A34940013?srsltid=AfmBOoqsN8JWw5U74Wy899k4NFzqtUhyZhZfumBtI1m8yO9GsRHbwEfg" title="Levi's Baggy Dad Jean">Levi's online store</a>  Made in Cambodia Curated by: Amina Demirdache-Grace; Evelyn MacIver; Lilah Hurtubise-Gates; Faith Mackay; Rebekah Slack Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Levi Strauss & Co. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Levi’s premium Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource 79% cotton, 21% Tencel®™ Lyocell, denim, non-stretch , zip fly, 5-pocket styling Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical object - clothing Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Baggy Dad Style # A34940013 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant A worldwide brand in continuous use since its original manufacturing date in 1873 https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/ed015e97cdccdb5d4e83c965091777f9.JPG 4d6d91bc1586c507692d28140b93807c https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/eeaa51c1baa0212c1e6c353770f04efb.jpg 5b0fed18ad4e38b24f14cec895f344fa https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/3cebeecbaf0e0176f02f0ad429430acb.png e3420415a1a4dce4683a5428212c1a4b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource O-FRANGO Description An account of the resource O-Frango is an affordable food truck near the University of Ottawa campus that has become a go-to dining spot for many students after class. Their fried chicken and fries served with a variety of sauces are a big hit among students. It perfectly reflects the daily life and food culture of uOttawa students in 2025. Outside their food truck, there's a plastic canopy and tables where students can eat their fried chicken right away or share it with friends. Not only that, but their lunch boxes and food carts all feature their own logo—a chicken wearing a chef's hat—along with the date they opened and their slogan: “O-town Fried Chicken.” Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Haithm Alshaebi Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived 151 Laurier Ave E Ottawa, ON K1N 6N8 Canada Curated by: Eli Pearce; Yanqing Lu; Ruiqing Bi; Ben Maduri Photo: Yanqing Lu Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource © Ofrango Relation A related resource Fried Chicken and restaurant Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Physical object-Food Truck Next to the food cart is an extended platform with a canopy, featuring three or four chairs for diners to eat. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical object-Food Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,2019- Present day Decor https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/c53fdad6764d6b8bd97dda8ce74444ec.jpg 7de9acd880dabb8309187015d608f023 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Original Prusa MK4S HF0.4 nozzle Subject The topic of the resource Prusa 3D printers at University of Ottawa Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Prusa Research by Joseph Prusa Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2024 Language A language of the resource English French Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical object - 3D printing machine with a HF0.4 nozzle Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Made by Prusa Research by Joseph Prusa. Purchased by the University of Ottawa Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Acquired from: uOttawa Richard L'Abbé Makerspace, STM 107 150 Louis Pasteur Ottawa ON K1N 6N5. Catalogued by uOttawa General Inv. <a href="https://www.prusa3d.com/product/original-prusa-mk4s-3d-printer-5/" title="Company's website listing of the product">Original Prusa MK4S</a> Curated by: Fred Gagne; Maya Norgaard; Lorelie Houde; Erica Doucet-MacDonald Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Original Prusa research can reproduce this model. everyone with access to Richard L’Abbé Makerspace can operate it Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource The printer weighs 7 kg, and has dimensions of 500×550×400 mm. The building area is 250 x 210 x 220 mm and the printing plate is Magnetic heatbed with removable PEI spring steel sheets. It has a mainboard for controls, a nozzle of 0.4mm, advanced sensors and a cooling fan with a 360 degree cooling system. It uses Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) techniques. The print medium is with a USB drive, LAN or with the internet via Prusa connect. It is to be noted that the medium used at Richard L’Abbé Makerspace is a USB drive. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 00022617 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Prusa Research A.S. EU Partyzánská 188/7A, 17000 Prague 7 Czech Republic Description An account of the resource 3D printing machines can be found in the STEM building in MakerSpace since 2017. This space is a part of Centre of Entrepreneurship and Engineering Design (CEED) and is a crucial aspect of the engineering faculty . Back in 2017, the only printers available were the UltiMakers released in 2013. In Summer 2025, CEED acquired two Prusa MK4S in MakerSpace. This place is available to all students and staff members of uOttawa. It is useful to engineering students for many of their classes, but it is also used for personal projects by other faculties. In prior years, access to the printing machines was free. As of Fall 2025, costs of ten dollars are included in tuition fees of engineering programs. For other members of the community, a few options are offered; it is free on Sundays, they can buy a day pass for 5$ or pay 25$ for a semester with unlimited use. Since 2017, Richard L'Abbé Makerspace and its 3D printers have been part of the culture, but the Prusa MK4S are truly unique to the current culture now in 2025 and have changed how things work in general. Functional https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/bfd3fdfa2ecd63c19e753f7075b81c2b.jpg 17ab784d04a146021e232c5d3a863a57 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Physical Object An inanimate, three-dimensional object or substance. Note that digital representations of, or surrogates for, these objects should use Moving Image, Still Image, Text or one of the other types. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Owala FreeSip 24 oz Water Bottle Subject The topic of the resource A water bottle Description An account of the resource When it comes to water bottles that students use, there is a variety in terms of brands. Based on our observations, the main target audience of this brand of water bottle is female, due to their fashionable appearance and diverse colors. Despite water bottles being meant as reusable items in which you don't need several, it has been observed that students keep buying new ones. The current trend in part determines what water bottle brands students are getting. This influence comes in the form of videos on social media promoting how much better a particular water bottle is than the last one. To keep up with each new water bottle coming out. They are promoted as another accessory to carry around. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Steve Sorensen( serves the roles of co-founder/CEO) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived This water bottle can be bought at multiple stores. Stores that are close to UOttawa that sell them that have a targeted audience of teens/young adults are Urban Outfitters and Simons. Both stores offer different colorways and styles of this brand’s water bottle.  Urban Outfitters:135 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7A4 Simons: 50 Rideau St Unit Y305, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Owala was created by Steve Sorensen Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2020 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource N/A Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Trove Brands, LLC: Steve Sorensen Relation A related resource Related to the Telfer Fanny Pack and Gee-Gees Lanyard, as part of the uOttawa Student Life 2025 Time Capsule. Together, these items reflect daily routines, mobility, and sustainability among students. Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource The water bottle comes in multiple colors, it has a sippy cup-like drinking spout, and it holds 24 oz of liquid. It is also stainless steel. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical object: drinkware Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Product Sku: 84382746 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Used by students and non-students. https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/9275714d18e9e3c4d5b71c003d42d975.png d217b73bab31cbfb12b7f613252d9b95 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Panda Games Tickets Subject The topic of the resource Admission Ticket Description An account of the resource A digital ticket to the 2025 “Panda Game”, an annual football game between the University of Ottawa and Carleton University. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Ticketmaster Inc.; University of Ottawa Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived University of Ottawa’s “Panda Game” website page, which linked to the Ticketmaster page to purchase tickets. Catalogued by: Jasmine Dicaire, Isabella Eccleston, Soren Fox, Raven Roberge, Nicholas Schenk Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Ticketmaster Inc. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Purchased September 12th, 2025; Valid October 5th, 2025. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource N/A Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Ticketmaster Inc. Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Digital Language A language of the resource English, also available in French Type The nature or genre of the resource Digital Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context {X} Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Panda Games Tickets Subject The topic of the resource Admission ticket Description An account of the resource The Panda Games are an annual event in which the University of Ottawa plays a high-stakes game of American Football against Carleton University. There has been a long standing rivalry between the two universities, resulting in these tickets becoming a hot commodity. Typically, sides are chosen for each team’s university to sit at, and these sides are displayed as the tickets are purchased. It was also common for the audience of the winning university to bypass their safety restraints and go onto the playing field, known as “storming the field.” Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Ticketmaster Inc.; University of Ottawa Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived University of Ottawa’s “Panda Game” website page, which linked to the Ticketmaster page to purchase tickets. Curated by: Jasmine Dicaire; Isabella Eccleston; Charlotte Fox; Raven Roberge; Nicholas Schenk Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Ticketmaster Inc. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Purchased September 12th, 2025; Valid October 5th, 2025. Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Ticketmaster Inc. Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Digital Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Digital Digital Functional https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/b75d2db7ab02a5e0fd078276490897e5.png eb65813482fa5d6e30d96716ac393026 https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/115a922cd6be3ba04c41dfe627f38a13.jpg a8ca124c29a5038e0957b4bd64e173d0 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Physical Object An inanimate, three-dimensional object or substance. Note that digital representations of, or surrogates for, these objects should use Moving Image, Still Image, Text or one of the other types. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Pedro the Panda Subject The topic of the resource Trophy, Sports Trophy Description An account of the resource Pedro the Panda is a symbol for university students in Ottawa. It goes to the winner of the iconic “Panda Game” that takes place in early October between the two universities in Ottawa. It's where the Carleton University Ravens and the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees partake in a football game where the winner keeps it until the next game the following year. It represents pride for the winner and instills a greater sense of rivalry between the two schools. The game alone is one of the most celebrated traditions in the Ottawa local area; Pedro is more than just a trophy, he is a mascot of the rivalry, a symbol of school spirit, and a part of the lives of many university students. It represents not just victory in a football game, but also bragging rights, student pride, and a connection to the legacy of the Panda Games. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Dale Dunning - Artist Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Photo: Ruiqing Bi Curated by: Eli Pearce; Yanqing Lu; Ruiqing Bi; Ben Maduri; Erica Woolsey; Patrick Levesque; Ocive Soki-Kavwohirohi; Hadissa Shahzad; Cloee Ennis Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available University of Ottawa Gee-Gees and Carleton University Ravens Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2013 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource University of Ottawa and Carleton University (Currently in possession) Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Brushed aluminium trophy mounted on a wooden pedestal with metal plaquettes engraved with the names of the winners on the side. Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Trophy used between 2013 - Present Day Decor Physical https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/4c1313d93d89c0c52ae5fe01a76466a3.jpg 846f703c961c4c8d6d405580cab5322f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Reusable Lululemon Water Bottle Subject The topic of the resource Reusable Lululemon Water Bottle Description An account of the resource A reusable water bottle created by Lululemon that combines a minimalistic design with everyday functionality. Made from stainless steel with a silicone grip and a polypropylene lid, which helps keep drinks at a cool or warm temperature while reducing the need for single-use plastics. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Lululemon Athletica Inc. Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Lululemon Athletica Inc. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource © Lululemon Athletica Inc. – All rights reserved Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Physical object (plastic and metal with a printed logo). Materials: Body: 100% Steel Band: 100% Silicone Top: 100% Polypropylene Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical Object Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context <a href="IMG_7103.heic">IMG_7103.heic</a> Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Global; designed in Canada Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Lululemon 287A, 50 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7 https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/eb87f1094fca0273e1434da29b6bc3f5.jpg 63e8a41bc285d673933c52b22f9d8ebc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Sambas OG shoes Subject The topic of the resource A popular name brand shoe, worn often by University of Ottawa students Description An account of the resource The Adidas Samba shoes throw it back to the glory days of sport. Originally built for football, these iconic kicks have since become a casual favorite for sneakerheads and fashionistas alike. Their full leather upper, accented with a nubuck toe cap, delivers a premium look that only gets better with wear. Serrated 3-Stripes add adidas style for a look that will always be an original. This timeless silhouette is ready to take on your everyday adventures Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Adi Dassler was the creator of Adidas sambas Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived 8555 Campeau Drive, K2T 0K5, Adidas store, Ottawa ON <a href="https://www.adidas.ca/en/samba-og-shoes/B75806.html" title="Adidas Sambas">Adidas online store</a> Curated by: Amina Demirdache-Grace; Lilah Hurtubise-Gates; Evelyn Maclever; Faith Mackay; Rebekah Slack Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available ADIDAS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource The first pair of Adidas sambas was made in 1949 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource ADIDAS Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource The Adidas Samba is a low-top, leather or suede sneaker with a slim silhouette, T-shaped toe overlay, and signature three stripes. It features a gum rubber sole, offering both traction and style. Originally made for indoor soccer, it’s now a timeless streetwear icon known for its clean, classic look and everyday comfort. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical object - shoes Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context JR8843 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Made in Vietnam and manufactured by German multinational Adidas Apparel Functional Physical https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/28eddd897029ad6e8dae59ed41ce02bd.pdf f83ee313375145c4b72d4771ff843eaf Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Physical Object An inanimate, three-dimensional object or substance. Note that digital representations of, or surrogates for, these objects should use Moving Image, Still Image, Text or one of the other types. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Sherpa Jacket Subject The topic of the resource Sherpa Jacket Description An account of the resource This sherpa jacket is a lightweight but cozy way to stay warm against the cold temperatures we face in Ottawa. Made to resemble sheepskin, this 21st century outwear piece is apart of both men and women's fashion making it a popular choice for everyone. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Boxercraft - Manufacturer Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Acquired From: <a href="https://www.bkstr.com/ottawastore/home">Uottawa Boutique Campus Store</a> Jock-Turcot University Centre 85 University Pvt Ottawa, ON K1N6N5 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available University of Ottawa Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2023 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource University of Ottawa Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Physical Item - 100% Polyester Unique to Student Language A language of the resource English https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/92ba55cb1b0423985fac630b778dbcf4.png efb6e0eb4a453cd35572b3404f33db0d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Shine Day T-Shirt Description An account of the resource The Shine-Day activity originates from Cystic Fibrosis Canada’s fundraising initiative called Shinerama. This T-shirt is part of the mandatory dress code for student volunteers serving as marathon guides during the University of Ottawa’s 2025 101 Week, hosted by the University of Ottawa Students’ Union (UOSU). The purpose of this marathon is to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis Canada. This T-shirt represents UOSU and uOttawa students’ commitment to supporting their community through charity. It also symbolizes students’ dedication to taking action and embracing social responsibility. The T-shirt is size XXL, white in colour, with the uOttawa text and the Shinerama logo printed on the front. Subject The topic of the resource Cloth T-Shirt Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource M&O Gold Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Acquired from volunteering gift Curated by: Eli Pearce; Yanqing Lu; Ruiqing Bi; Ben Maduri Photo: Ruiqing Bi Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available University of Ottawa Sciences Students’ Association SSA Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 September 2nd Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource University of Ottawa Student Association (UOSA) Relation A related resource Charity and Marathon Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Physical Object, T-Shirt: White T-Shirt with Orange and Blue texts spelling out “uOttawa”, “Shinerama”, and “Student Fighting Cystic Fibrosis” Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical Object Cloth T-Shirt Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant T-Shirt used in 2025 September 2nd Apparel Physical https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/63c069abbb608df529be785e46d9fe5e.jpg b70239dd7f16c71891ddac33ffdab8a3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Physical Object An inanimate, three-dimensional object or substance. Note that digital representations of, or surrogates for, these objects should use Moving Image, Still Image, Text or one of the other types. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Telfer AETSA fanny pack Subject The topic of the resource University Merchandise, Telfer, Apparel Description An account of the resource The clear AETSA fanny pack just makes campus life at the University of Ottawa easier. Toss in your student ID, keys, phone, and anything you need for class or a Gee-Gees game. It’s all right there, no digging around. Plus, the transparent look and bold AETSA logo let everyone know you’re part of the Telfer School of Business crowd. It’s a simple way to show your school spirit and stay organized at the same time. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource AETSA Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Given to first-year students in the Telfer School of Management Curated by Nathan Mutandi Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available The Telfer School of Management, University of Ottawa Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2023-2024 Academic year Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource N/A Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Educational and non-commercial use only. Image and description © University of Ottawa. Relation A related resource N/A Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Clear plastic pack with nylon straps to secure it. The Association étudiante Telfer Students logo is prominently shown on the front. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical object, clothing accessory Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context N/A Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Can be used by anyone, but mostly university students, specifically Telfer students https://omeka.uottawa.ca/anthroharvest/files/original/a7cac786094781f6b948ea7611945cfd.jpg 271587cd11e2c93ab8b2d209c7986a78 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource uOttawa Time Capsule 2025 Subject The topic of the resource According to Google AI, "A digital time capsule is a curated collection of digital assets, like photos, videos, and documents, intended to capture a specific moment, person, or theme and be preserved and shared in the future." In our case, this time capsule reflects important objects, places, and ephemera that illustrate campus life in fall 2025. All were chosen by the students who were participant-observers of their own cultures. The students not only chose and photographed the objects, but they also wrote the stories or narratives associated with them. Description An account of the resource The culture of the University of Ottawa can be understood through the everyday objects that define student life. It begins with the uOttawa student card, the first sign of belonging. Paired with a Gee-Gees lanyard or a bilingual business card, it reflects the university’s bilingual identity and its position as a meeting point between English and French. This duality shapes how students learn, communicate, and represent themselves both on and off campus. Student culture at uOttawa is also reflected in what people wear. Levi’s jeans, University of Ottawa hoodies, sherpa jacket, and Telfer sweatshirts show how clothing blends comfort, pride, and practicality. The 101er Frosh T-shirt and Shine Day shirt add another layer of meaning, symbolizing both community and philanthropy. Frosh week introduces students to campus life, while Shine Day connects them to broader causes like Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Together, they show that school spirit at uOttawa extends beyond academics. The academic side of university life is seen in objects like the Apple products, headphones, notepaper, laptop stickers, syllabus, water bottles, and criminology string bags that fill classrooms and study spaces. These represent both creativity and routine. The Tim Hortons coffee cup might seem simple, but it captures a familiar ritual across campus. Coffee runs are part of the rhythm of student life, a shared pause in busy days. School pride and social life also find expression in items like Panda Game tickets and the Pedro Panda Trophy. These objects represent one of uOttawa’s biggest traditions, a yearly football rivalry with Carleton University that brings students together in celebration. Moments like this create a strong sense of community, even among a large and diverse student body. The Orange Shirt acknowledges the atrocities and suffering experienced by those who attended residential schools in Canada as part of the national Truth and Reconciliation mandate to honor Indigenous peoples. Finally, artifacts such as the U Cup mug, beer glasses from Father and Son's, a Prusa 3D printer, and even O-Frango’s—a popular student food stop, represent the blend of innovation and everyday culture. They show how uOttawa combines research, creativity, and social connection in a way that feels uniquely its own. Taken together, these objects tell a story about identity and community. The culture of uOttawa is defined by hard work, inclusivity, and pride, but also by small moments of connection. From the student card to the Panda Game, each item reflects how students experience and shape university life every day. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Tim Hortons Coffee Cup Subject The topic of the resource Tim Hortons beverage container Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tim Hortons Inc. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Item purchased October 24, 2025 Type The nature or genre of the resource Physical object - cup Language A language of the resource English Description An account of the resource Coffee is a hot, dark and bitter drink that contains coffee beans and caffeine. This beverage powered by caffeine fuels countless students through long lectures, study sessions, and general daily routines. This drink has become a powerful staple of campus culture. It is used by thousands of uOttawa students as a tool to combat fatigue, enhance focus, and improve mood to help students navigate academic life and complete tasks such as studying, homework, and assignments. Coffee is particularly valued during periods of high stress, such as exam seasons. Coffee is also consumed by students out of academic contexts because of the appealing taste. Coffee can be purchased at several locations on the uOttawa campus, and many more locations in the surrounding area. On campus, some popular locations include Tim Hortons (145 Jean-Jacques-Lussier Pvt), Second Cup Coffee (65 University Pvt), and Starbucks (55 Laurier Ave E). Because of the high demand for coffee by the student body, these locations are open every day of the business week, and even regularly employ students. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Tim Hortons cup with white lid introduced in 2022, still in use as of November 2025. Available internationally, largest concentration in Canada, USA, and China. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Curated by: Henry Shepherd; J. Li; N. Zimm; F. Sher. Physical