Update # 205
Regional meeting in NYC kicks off reinvigorated Toronto cluster for European culture
EUNIC rekindles cultural connections in Toronto
In a significant stride toward fostering cross-cultural collaboration, dialogue and artistic exchange, the EUNIC (European Union National Institutes for Culture) cluster in Toronto has been reignited with the active participation of prominent cultural institutions, and KESKUS will be a part of it.
Cluster founding members Goethe-Institut, Consulate General of France, Consulate General of the Czech Republic, Estonian Arts Centre, Alliance Française, Italian Cultural Institute signed the EUNIC Toronto cluster charter in late 2023. Accompanying them as associate members are the Consulate of Finland and the Canada Ireland Foundation, adding further diversity and depth to the collaborative network.
Estonian Arts Centre, the charity associated with KESKUS International Estonian Centre, was issued the mandate from Eesti Instituut in Tallinn, the full member of EUNIC Global, to enter into the Toronto cluster agreement. Good guidance for Toronto comes from Estonia's New York consulate, which held the NY EUNIC cluster presidency in 2023, helmed by Jaanika Peerna, cultural attaché.
EUNIC's Regional Meeting
Adding momentum to the Toronto cluster's revitalization, EUNIC's regional meeting took place on January 25-26, 2024, in the vibrant backdrop of New York City. Representatives from the Toronto cluster (including from EAC) joined those from Ottawa, Montreal, New York, Chicago, Washington and San Francisco, and EU Delegations from Canada and the US, to reset and look for synergies in promoting the European voice and encouraging dialogue through cultural exchange in North America.
The event served as a platform for members to share insights, discuss upcoming projects, and explore innovative ways to enhance cultural engagement. The vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences has invigorated commitment to the principles of EUNIC, fostering unity through cultural diversity.
Toronto's Cultural Powerhouses
The Toronto cluster's charter signing is a boost for the city's cultural landscape. Each of the members and associate members promote language, culture and the arts in all its forms to promote cross-cultural understanding, by weaving together the cultural threads that bind the European nations. With a shared commitment to fostering cultural exchange, these institutions are poised to significantly contribute to Toronto's cultural identity and dialogue.
A Vision for the Future
The re-start of the EUNIC cluster in Toronto opens a new chapter in the city's cultural narrative and the possibilities for EAC and for KESKUS. With the collective strength of its diverse members, there is a palpable sense of enthusiasm for the myriad of new collaborative projects and events that will contribute to Toronto’s cultural landscape. The EUNIC cluster's commitment to cultural diplomacy reflects a genuine desire to build bridges and foster meaningful dialogue and connections between communities.
Discover the benefits of giving wisely
Please join the growing list of KESKUS capital campaign donors to help bring KESKUS to completion. KESKUS leadership donors are recognized here.
There are many ways to make a contribution to KESKUS.
To donate, click here, or call +1.647.250.7136 or email donations@estoniancentre.ca. Donations may be made as a family gift, or in honour of an individual or family. All donations are issued a tax receipt, in Canada via Estonian Arts Centre, US tax receipts via Myriad USA and Estonian tax receipts via Eesti Rahvuskultuuri Fond. Donations by credit card may be made here.
Legacy gifts made to the Estonian Arts Centre, the charity associated with KESKUS, are creative and tax-effective ways to provide support. These are known as “planned gifts” because with thoughtful planning, we create a win-win situation that benefits both you and our community for generations to come. Find out how to provide a bequest in your will by going to www.estoniancentre.ca/bequest.
For information on making other types of planned gifts, including gifts of appreciated securities or insurance policies, or if you have any other questions, please contact EAC Donations Manager Taimi Hooper via email at donations@estoniancentre.ca or phone +1.647.250.7136.
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