CIHS Annual General Meeting – celebrating 40 years

On Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at its Annual General Meeting, members of the Canadian Immigration Historical Society celebrated the 40th anniversary of its inception in 1986.

Our president, Dawn Edlund, spoke briefly to highlight issues from the various reports—which had been sent to members in September—and recognized our Gunn Prize winner, Maya James, who unfortunately could not be with us.

Dawn also welcomed our guest speaker, Dr. Monica MacDonald, head of the research team of historians at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. Dr. MacDonald’s remarks highlighted the enduring links between CIHS and Pier 21, and the need for continued work to document immigration history in Canada—not just the legislation, regulations and departmental policies, but also the work of those who deliver the programs on a daily basis.

We were all delighted to learn Pier 21’s mascot is named ‘Fenton Crosman’ and is the namesake of one of the CIHS’s founding members.

We hope that you enjoy looking through the photos of the event. You may click on any of the photos to see a larger version.