an exhibition on the LGBTQI refugee experience

From May - July 2019, we (JAYU) presented AM I WRONG TO LOVE? in partnership with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) to highlight the specific adversities facing LGBTQI+ refugees. 

While receiving one-on-one mentorship from an accomplished photographer in Toronto, 17 iAM graduates mastered storytelling through portraiture and explored the stories of 20 LGBTQ2I+ refugees. Originating from ten countries, each subject came to Toronto in search of safety after suffering persecution for their gender expression, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

Our largest iAM exhibition yet, AM I WRONG TO LOVE? attracted national media coverage and captivated over 20,000 people during its three-month run. iAM exhibitions like AM I WRONG TO LOVE? are crucial to our mission; not only do exhibitions serve as a platform for subjects to share their stories, they also provide public exposure and gallery experience for our youth, preparing them for their own future exhibitions.

This June, we’re sharing the exhibition virtually for those who missed the chance to see it in person and to provide updates about some of our subjects. Thank you to all who participated in this project.