Many Histories, One Land: A Conversation We’re Still Having
In 1993, historian Roberto Perin wrote something that still echoes through the work we do at the Gallery: Canadian history is not — and never has been — a single story. As he writes:
“National history is out of fashion in Canada.”Since the 1960s, Canada’s constitutional upheaval has disrupted the once-dominant narrative of national history. In this context, “social history emerged … in seeking to reconstitute the internal history of social groups”, fracturing the unified interpretation and rhythm of traditional history.“
In his article National Histories and Ethnic History in Canada, Perin challenged the idea of one “national history,” urging us instead to imagine history as a conversation of many voices — voices shaped by ethno-cultural roots, class, gender, and nation.
What strikes us most is how Perin frames First Nations histories not as footnotes, but as living, autonomous narratives that challenge and enrich the broader Canadian story. Perin invites us to reflect:
“The question now arises … how many national histories does Canada have? Where do the First Nations and immigrant groups fit into … this (these) national history (histories), or do they have national histories of their own?”
What can we learn when those narratives meet — sometimes in dialogue, sometimes in tension? This way of thinking—history as layered, plural, and relational—lies at the heart of what we present at the Gallery. Each migration story we share echoes with others: the resilience of displaced communities, the courage of newcomers, and the enduring voice of Indigenous presence.
Perin’s call for a socially aware, interdisciplinary history reminds us that:
To honor Indigenous perspectives is to honor sovereignty and complexity.
To weave immigrant, working-class, and women’s histories into the fabric of Canadian history is to recognize their agency and impact.
To listen deeply is to accept that history isn’t a monologue—but a persistent, evolving conversation.
Today, as Canada continues to reckon with the truths of residential schools, land rights, and the long road to reconciliation, Perin’s insight feels more urgent than ever.
History—and migration—are never static. They flow as a confluence of journeys, where voices meet, stories intertwine, and belonging is continually redefined.
Prof. Roberto Perin's bio
A full professor, Roberto Perin obtained his doctorate in history from the University of Ottawa. He has taught at the Universities of Edinburg and York and was director of the Canadian Academic Centre in Italy (Rome). A specialist of immigration, he was vice-president of the Italian committee of the Community Historical Recognition Programme, established by the federal government, and historical consultant for the exhibitions at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. An expert as well in Canadian religious history, he has often been a commentator for Radio Canada on questions involving immigration, cultural and religious diversity, as well as reasonable accommodation.
Prof. Roberto Perin's revealing interview on "Becoming Canadian" documentary
Read more about this documentary and watch the full version here.