Mother Marie Thomas d’Aquin and the Sisters of the Jeanne d’Arc Institute: A Congregation of Forward-thinking Women

Teachers, nurses, social workers—female religious congregations played a vital role in the development of French Canadian society, whether by helping the most disadvantaged, caring for the sick, or educating many generations. True precursors of a certain brand of feminism, they often provided one of the only educational frameworks for young women who aspired to a career rather than the traditional path of homemaking.

In a society long stifled by conservatism, religious congregations often provided their members with opportunities to pursue careers in teaching, nursing, social work, or management.

This exhibition explores the work of one such congregation, the Sisters of the Jeanne d’Arc Institute, and that of its founder, Mother Marie Thomas d’Aquin. You will discover remarkable women who held a variety of professions and were characterised by their open-mindedness and welcoming attitude towards others.

On display from October 27, 2023, to October 9, 2025.