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10 March 2007 —
29 April 2007

Mark Hamilton:
Rare View: a glimpse into the Somali Community

Mark Hamilton, School Leavers Jerseys, 2005. Black & white photograph. Commissioned by Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato.

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A photographic exhibition featuring the work of Mark Hamilton.

A LOOK INSIDE

Somali are new to the Hamilton community, and they are largely refugees. They bring with them a strong faith and a strong culture. Differences however, inevitably result in challenges. Stereotypes and prejudice. New processes and new norms. Working within a foreign environment, and grappling with a foreign tongue. These people, with all their richness, face challenges every day.

But what of every day life? Shopping at Pak n Save. New shoes for school. Toast on the way to work, or Fridays at the mosque. What is like to be part of a new migrant community, or dealing with ongoing prejudice? What is it like, creating a new life? How does it feel to be so visible, yet have so few know anything about you or your culture?

What if the rest of the community had the chance to see beyond the hijab or the taxi? What if they were offered a rare view inside the Somali community? If we had a glimpse inside, would we discover that, as Maya Angelou said, we are more alike, than we are unalike?

All exhibitions are currently offsite due to disruptions caused by the Pakuranga Eastern Busway construction. The building remains open for classes and other activities. 21 William Roberts Road, Pakuranga, is the best address to enter into navigation apps to guide you to the free parking at our door.

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