IDP stands for Internally Displaced Person. IDPs are persons forced or coerced to flee their homes but whom, unlike refugees, continue to live within their country’s borders. They are often obliged to leave their homes as a result of, or in order to, avoid the effects of conflict, violations of human rights, and generalized violence. 26 million people worldwide currently live in situations of internal displacement as a result of conflicts. Although internally displaced people now outnumber refugees by two to one, their plight receives far less international attention. (http://www.internal-displacement.org)

IDP Awareness Day aims at engaging the Canadian public in a dialogue concerning internally displaced people by bringing together community groups, students and artists who are already committed in bringing these issues to light.

Work will be shown in Dundas Square, Toronto, Canada for 1 day, June 25th to raise awareness on the plight of the world’s internally displaced people.

Do you have work to share on the topic of internal displacement? Does your community/organization/students advocate on behalf of internally displaced people? Do you want to help raise awareness of what an IDP is? And why Canadians should know?  Would you want the opportunity to display this creative and/or informative work in Dundas Square this June?

Submit a short description by May 1st extended to May 15th! (lararosenoff@gmail.com) to show drawings, photos, maps, written stories, performances or other creative work concerning internally displaced people. Visual work can be mounted and exhibited on a fence that will be set up the length of the square. Other quick and easy installations are welcome. From children’s drawings to professional photography, all kinds of work are welcome and needed!!!!!

Only restriction is that images must not be too graphic or violent (as per square’s regulations). Feel free to email for more information.
Help us create awareness on the special issues concerning internal displacement!
HELP US MAKE JUNE 25TH CANADA’S 1st IDP AWARENESS DAY!

Contact Lara: lararosenoff@gmail.com or  Andrea: an.mckinlay@gmail.com

A non-profit educational initiative from Andrea McKinlay and Lara Rosenoff. Supported by GuluWalk.