Marilynn Quigley
I’m More Than The Immigrant You Had In Mind is a powerful project that highlights the diverse and multifaceted identities of immigrants in Canada. The project aims to challenge the stereotypes often associated with newcomers, offering a richer and more nuanced view of their lives, passions, and contributions. Join us as we share the personal stories of immigrants from all walks of life, shedding light on their hopes, dreams, and pursuit of belonging in their new home.
You have to build a new language with your family. You have to develop new cues, a new history. So, immigration is a lot of construction work. All in all, I would say… I am grateful for the space that I have found here, but I am doubly grateful for all the opportunities I have had to also, express my past and my heritage.
Name: Marilynn Quigley
Originally From: Philippines
Photographs by Abadan Hamidulla
In this heartfelt interview, Marilynn Quigley, also known as Meyen, shares her 17-year journey from the Philippines to Canada. She reflects on the challenges of adapting her parenting style to a new culture, where children are given more independence and respect is shown differently. Meyen talks about the loss of her Filipino language and humor within her family, and how she’s worked to build new ways of connecting while preserving her heritage.
Her story is a powerful reminder of the complexity of immigration and the importance of balancing tradition with adaptation, all while celebrating the rich contributions that immigrant communities bring to the Canadian landscape.
Listen to how Meyen has used her experiences to contribute to the Filipino community in Canada and share the rich cultural traditions with younger generations.
This project is produced and presented to you by the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria and powered by the Department of Canadian Heritage.
