I Belong Here

Exploring Humanity Beyond Labels

This project began with a question:

How can I help others see the full humanity of people who have been labeled and marginalized?

Through years of living and working in my community, I've developed friendships with individuals who, despite facing immense challenges, carry rich and varied stories—of adventure, love, loyalty, accomplishment, and wisdom gained through experience. Hearing these stories firsthand changed me and I want others to have that chance to listen deeply.

The first stage of the project launched in October, 2025 with 'listening stations' in downtown Cobourg, ON. Posters designed in a nine-patch quilt motif appeared in shop windows and public spaces. Each quilt block featured a QR code to connect smartphone users to a two-minute audio clip (available below) drawn from the oral history recordings. I Belong Here is an invitation to listen with an open heart. My hope is that listeners will recognize our shared humanity and consider what it truly means to belong to one another in community.

The project was made possible through the guidance of Dr. Angela Maye-Banbury, the encouragement of 880 Cities, and the technical expertise of Johan Hallberg-Campbell.

Follow on Instagram at @story.collect.or.