Book Launch: Strangely Friends: A History of Cuban-Canadian Encounters

Loading Events

« All Events

  • This event has passed.

Book Launch: Strangely Friends: A History of Cuban-Canadian Encounters

October 9, 2025 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

with Karen Dubinsky

You are cordially invited to join author Karen Dubinsky on Thursday October 9, 4-6 pm for a discussion of her new book: Strangely, Friends: A History of Cuban-Canadian Encounters.

Strangely, Friends delves into the rich, often overlooked history of personal and cultural connections between Cubans and Canadians. From the early days of the Cuban Revolution to the present, this book uncovers the stories of Canadians who were drawn to Cuba—teachers, artists, development aid workers, filmmakers, and activists—who left a mark on the island, and Cubans, especially the musicians, who found a home in Canada. Through intimate portraits and serendipitous encounters, Karen Dubinsky explores how these relationships transcended political ideologies and state policies, revealing a shared humanity that defies borders.

We’ll also hear comments on the book from David Austin (John Abbott College) and Zaira Zarza (University of Montreal). The launch will take place on Thursday, October 9, 4-6 pm in the Sunroom at COHDS (LB-1019).

Karen Dubinsky is an Emeritus Professor at Queen’s University. For many years she co-ordinated and co-taught in a Queen’s exchange program with University of Havana.

She has published and edited books on a wide variety of topics, including the history of gender and sexuality in Canada, the global 1960s, adoption and child migration in Canada, Cuba and Guatemala, and the politics of music in Cuba. She is a recipient of two teaching awards: the Queen’s University Award for Excellence in Graduate Supervision and the Queen’s Award for International Educational Innovation.

 

REGISTRATION

Register now with this link

Please note that all our events are free and open to all, but registration is mandatory. For any questions please contact cohds.chorn@concordia.ca

LOCATION

In-person in LB-1019 (Sunroom), COHDS

COHDS/ALLAB is located on unceded Kanien’kehá:ka territory, in Tiohtiá:ke/Montreal.

Details

Venue

Details

Venue