Response By
Susan Toth
Constance Larkin Humphrys (Humphrys' Hats) Fascinator and Box, about 1950
various materials Gift of Maureen Wood, London, 2015Response
Beauty in the midst of a World War.
Splendour out of strife: a widow supporting herself and her family.
An independent woman, working: an entrepreneur.
We are separated by a century, but I feel her fierce creativity.
This is not a hat for the timid.
This hat says, despite War (and viruses!), despite those who would deny humanity (and science!)
I am Alive!
I am Bold.
And I will not be Beige (or quiet!) to make you feel more comfortable.
Susan Toth is a partner at Polishuk Camman & Steele in London, and teacher at Brescia University College at Western University. Susan received the Ontario Bar Association’s Award of Excellence in the Promotion of Women’s Equality in 2020, and a Canada 150 Medal in 2017 in honour of her contributions to the community.