Hill Werth, Ed ’24 an artist, activist, and educator set out to unite our differences through conversation, dialogue, and art.
A year ago, recent graduate, Hill Werth, launched their Hate Has No Home Here campaign. Since its inception in early September 2023, the campaign has spread across Canada, making its way from Kingston all the way to the House of Commons.
The colourful piece is now prominently displayed on several window fronts on Princess St. promoting safe spaces for all of the
Kingston community.
While browsing stores, Werth noticed Pride flags, Black Lives Matter stickers, and Every Child Matters signs displayed side by side. This sight sparked an idea to create an artwork that unites these symbols, bridging different values, traditions, and identities—even when they aren’t always the same.
“This piece includes people who have historically been discriminated against and I wanted to create an image that included all people who have felt like they didn’t fit into this western society,” Werth said in an interview with The Journal. “It was a step beyond putting a rainbow sticker or rainbow heart in the window.”
As Werth’s art started popping up around Kingston demand grew from people wanting to showcase it in their organizations, schools, and businesses. Werth believes the spread of their art speaks to the importance of starting conversations, and without those conversations, the piece wouldn’t have evolved to where it is today.
With each poster delivered, Werth includes a note explaining that the artwork is a “peaceful way to combat hate against all marginalized groups who have faced, and continue to face, discrimination.” It’s an invitation for people to step out of their bubbles, have meaningful but uncomfortable conversations, and build bridges between diverse communities.
Although the artwork speaks volumes on its own, Werth often finds that some viewers miss its deeper message. They clarify the intention behind their art isn’t to create divisions or categorize people but to unite them. Their hope is to foster a loving and inclusive environment where differences—cultural, religious, or otherwise—are embraced rather than used to divide.
“I wish people would see that, we separate ourselves and I wish people would see that this poster is all-encoming to breaking down those barriers of the difference that we have,” Werth said.
Despite some negative comments and reactions to the campaign and their art, Werth champions the attitude of “fighting for the rights of everyone,” even if they have nothing in common together referencing that the good comments outweigh the bad ones.
A significant moment of recognition came when Mark Gerretsen, Member of Parliament (MP) for Kingston and the Islands, brought attention to Werth’s work in the House of Commons on Trans Day of
Visibility on March 31.
“I want to recognize an incredible local artist and activist from the Kingston Area. […] The posters are proudly and prominently displayed at businesses and organizations on numerous windows and storefronts throughout the city reminding us that love, acceptance, and respect, are fundamental to a healthy society,” Gerretsen said in the House of Commons.
The campaign’s influence reached new heights when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau signed the Hate Has No Home Here poster in a picture shared on Instagram with Gerretsen and the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities, Kamal Khera. For Werth, seeing that photo left them at a loss for words.
Through all the ups and downs of the campaign, Werth’s mission remains crystal clear. Their art continues to be a powerful tool for change, unwavering in its goal to unite people despite their differences and make Kingston a safer and more inviting place for everyone.
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