Skip to content

Diefenbaker Centre adopts donation-based admission

Explore DCC exhibits with new pay-what-you-want model.
usask0623
Located at the University of Saskatchewan, the Diefenbaker Centre is aiming to foster greater access and welcome diverse audiences to engage and interact with the museum’s exhibitions.

SASKATOON – Beginning June 2, the Diefenbaker Canada Centre (DCC) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) will transition to an admission-by-donation structure, allowing visitors to contribute any amount of their choice as they explore the exhibits.

The goal of this change is to foster greater access and welcome diverse audiences to engage and interact with the museum’s exhibitions. This change comes in response to valuable visitor feedback received over the past two years. Previously, admission prices were $7 for adults; $5 for seniors, children ages 5-16, and students; while children under five and USask students were free. 

With a deep commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, the DCC strives to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the rich history and inspiring stories housed within the museum’s walls. By implementing an admission-by-donation structure, the museum aims to remove financial barriers and encourage a wider audience to appreciate and recognize the legacy of Canada’s political heritage. 

“The Diefenbaker Canada Centre plays an important role in education and learning for the community; therefore, we want to ensure our space is welcoming, inclusive, and accessible,” said Helanna Gessner, DCC’s curatorial, collections, and exhibits manager. “Our exhibit galleries and educational programs continue to thrive thanks to external funding and public donations.” 

The DCC’s educational programs, guided gallery and campus tours, and special events will continue to operate as fee-for-service offerings. These prices will be assessed regularly to ensure affordability, while continuing to support the delivery of high-quality programming by trained staff. The adjustment in programming and tour fees for programs starting September 2023 will be announced later this summer. Additionally, the DCC will continue to host free community events, such as Culture Days in September and October, along with family day activities scheduled throughout the year.  

The DCC thanks all visitors for their support and invites the public to experience the latest exhibit, Health in Space: Daring to Explore, developed by the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in collaboration with the Canadian Space Agency.

— Submitted by USask Media Relations