University of Winnipeg Professor Receives Prestigious Vigdís Prize

Professor Ryan Eyford from the University of Winnipeg has been awarded the 2023 Vigdís Prize, a notable accolade recognizing contributions to world languages and cultures. This prestigious award, valued at 6 million Icelandic krona (approximately C$67,000), is presented annually by the Icelandic government, the University of Iceland, and the Vigdís International Centre. The award ceremony is set to take place in Reykjavík, Iceland, on October 19, 2023.

Upon receiving the news via email in July, Eyford expressed his surprise, stating, “I was honestly shocked. First email I opened up in the morning, and it was a very pleasant surprise.” His recognition coincides with the upcoming celebrations of New Iceland’s 150th anniversary, marking the arrival of Icelandic settlers at Willow Island near what is now Gimli, Manitoba, in 1875.

Contributions to Cultural Heritage

Eyford, an associate professor in the history department at the University of Winnipeg, specializes in Indigenous and Canadian history. His work aims to contextualize New Iceland within the broader narratives of Manitoba and Western Canada, while addressing the complex relationships between settlers and Indigenous peoples. “My purpose in first undertaking the project was to put New Iceland into its proper context in Manitoba,” he explained. “That inevitably involves thinking about relations with the people who were already there.”

His contributions are prominently featured at the New Iceland Heritage Museum in Gimli, where he has helped curate exhibits. One significant area highlights the life of John Ramsay, a Salteaux man who played a crucial role in saving 75 Icelandic settlers from starvation. Ramsay’s legacy is further complicated by his advocacy for Salteaux land rights, which went unrecognized by the government during the period of European settlement.

Eyford’s text at the museum points out that while Ramsay was celebrated by early Icelandic leaders, his pleas for land rights were dismissed. This reflects a broader pattern of treaty violations experienced by Indigenous peoples in Manitoba, paving the way for extensive European settlement.

Reflections on Multiculturalism

Another exhibit curated by Eyford addresses the evolution of Canadian multiculturalism, particularly how Icelandic organizations adapted to the nation’s official policies adopted in the 1970s and 1980s. Eyford notes that many local Icelandic leaders embraced these multicultural ideals, emphasizing the importance of recognizing contributions from various ethnic groups in Canada.

As he reflects on the historical context of New Iceland, Eyford acknowledges the increasing scrutiny of past multiculturalist narratives, which often romanticize the immigrant experience. “We’re moving away from that old idea of the immigrants coming to a new world,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive understanding of Canada’s history as an ancient homeland.

Eyford’s approach is not to engage in self-criticism but to foster a more honest appraisal of the past, which can inform a more inclusive future. “For the people who are descended from those New Iceland settlers, it’s central to their family story, and it’s part of who they are,” he said. “Anytime that we’re thinking about the past in an anniversary year like this, we’re also thinking about the future.”

During the awarding ceremony at the University of Iceland, Eyford will present a public lecture titled “Commemorating Colonization: New Iceland Anniversaries.” This event will also serve as an opportunity for him to explore the scenic landscapes of Iceland, known as the Land of Fire and Ice. “They just had a big dump of snow, so I’m not sure how that’s going to affect our plans,” he shared, looking forward to visiting friends and family and exploring the region.

Eyford’s recognition by the Vigdís Prize not only highlights his scholarly contributions but also serves as a reminder of the intertwined histories of settlers and Indigenous peoples in Canada, prompting ongoing discussions about identity and heritage.