Community-First Criticism: The City of Orillia Screams With Culture

Community-first criticism is an approach to analyzing media, art, or cultural works that prioritizes the needs, perspectives, and values of the communities most affected or represented by the work. Instead of focusing solely on the artist's intent or universal standards, this type of criticism centers the lived experiences of the community in question, aiming to foster understanding and accountability. 

In my opinion, the key aspects of community-first criticism include:

Centering Marginalized Voices: It gives priority to the perspectives of those who have historically been marginalized or underrepresented.

Cultural Sensitivity: Critics consider cultural contexts and historical backgrounds, being mindful of how the work impacts the community depicted or addressed.

Empowerment and Responsibility: It advocates for the empowerment of communities by ensuring their voices are heard in the critical conversation, while also holding creators accountable for misrepresentation or harm.

This approach is especially common in fields like social justice, media analysis, and cultural criticism, where there's a desire to move away from more dominant perspectives. The way I must approach criticism should reflect an awareness of my own privilege and the overrepresentation of voices like mine in many spaces. I firmly believe that community-first criticism could benefit Orillia, and I believe I can contribute to that dialogue by approaching it with sensitivity and a focus on inclusivity. Here’s how I see my role in this:

 1. Indigenous Representation and Reconciliation

  I recognize that Orillia is located near the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe people, and I want to ensure that Indigenous voices are amplified in any discussions I engage in. I will approach local art, media, or initiatives involving Indigenous histories with respect and a focus on the perspectives of Indigenous communities. I see this as part of my commitment to reconciliation. 

2. Supporting Local Artists and Cultural Narratives

  I believe in the importance of giving attention to local artists and their work. When I critique or discuss Orillia’s cultural scene, I will prioritize the experiences and perspectives of local creators, making sure their contributions are valued and understood in the context of their lived experiences. I want to help highlight the diversity within Orillia’s artistic community.

3. Addressing Marginalization and Inclusivity

I am committed to addressing challenges related to marginalization and inclusivity in Orillia. When I engage with cultural events, public spaces, or media, I will pay close attention to how marginalized groups, like LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and racial minorities, are represented and included. I hope to ensure these voices are heard and respected in the community.

 4. Preserving Local Heritage

  I value Orillia’s local heritage and want to ensure that it’s presented in a way that includes all communities, not just the dominant narratives. When I discuss Orillia’s history or notable figures like Stephen Leacock, I will actively look for and amplify lesser-known stories that reflect the contributions of all parts of the community.

 5. Tourism and Ethical Representation

  I recognize the importance of Orillia as a tourist destination, and I want to ensure that tourism initiatives represent the community’s values accurately and ethically. I will approach discussions about tourism with a focus on respecting the local environment and cultures, avoiding stereotypes or representations that prioritize visitors over the community itself.

 6. Mental Health Advocacy and Social Justice

 Given my background in mental health advocacy, I am especially motivated to analyze how local policies, media, and initiatives address mental health issues. I will center the voices of those most affected by mental health challenges in my critiques, aiming to raise awareness and promote better resources and understanding for mental health in Orillia.

By using my voice and platform in this way, I believe I can contribute to a more inclusive, understanding, and equitable community in Orillia. I will stay mindful of my role as an advocate for change while elevating the voices of others. 

Orillia is without doubt full of art and life and culture! There’s always something for everyone and I look forward to doing as much as possible, and reporting back. I plan on taking these approaches and applying them to my work as I venture into the community and take part in the art,  beauty, and cultures that Orillia offers! The City of Orillia is screaming with culture, listen closely.

Noteworthy Upcoming Events:

Saturday, September 28, 2024, 10am-12pm: Sharing of Indigenous teachings and stories based on a deep connection to the land and lessons passed down through generations. 

Saturday, September 28, 2024, 9:30am - 5:30pm: Culture Days is a Canada-wide initiative to inspire people to participate in arts and culture.

Saturday, October 19, 2024, 7:30pm - 9:30pm: The Orillia Concert Band and the Orillia Big Band are joining musical forces to present a Fundraising Concert for the benefit of The Sharing Place, Orillia’s Food Bank!

Find a full calendar of events that may interest you here!

Alternatively, if you are an Indigenous artist, you can opt to submit your art for a chance to be showcased at the Orillia Museum of Art & History in the upcoming art exhibit: "The Seven Grandfather Teachings". You can choose to apply here, but more information can be found by following this link.