Historical Language Policy

Certain parts of our catalogues, collections, and individual items may contain historical language and content that some may consider offensive. This may include language used to refer to racial, ethnic and cultural groups. Individual items, collections and catalogues, and their content and their descriptions reflect the time period when they were created and the view(s) of their creator.

We retain their original descriptions (titles, headings, subtitles, et al.) to ensure that those attitudes and viewpoints are not erased from the historical record, that items are accurately and faithfully described, and to ensure that clients, whether private or institutional, are fully aware of details related to items of prospective interest. Where possible, we will always endeavour to provide context, and additional descriptive information to offer background on such collections, and items.

If you see records with inappropriate language or content that you think we should review, please contact us at [email protected], or, by phone at (416) 628-3773. Please include as many details as possible regarding the language or content which requires our attention such as our item number (“SKU”), title, or the relevant link to the item in question.