On July 18, 2000, Israel Izzy Asper, the renowned Canadian businessman
and philanthropist, first discussed his idea of building a human rights
center in Winnipeg. He wanted to educate visitors about human rights
issues and make the world a more humane place. Filled with full-color
photography and exquisitely designed, Miracle at the Forks recounts
the 14-year ordeal of making Izzy Asper's dream a reality. It recounts
the financial and political challenges of building a world class museum
in Winnipeg, an objective that was made all the more difficult by
Asper's death six months after the public unveiling of museum's plans.
It is a story of passion and sheer will, about Moe Levy's determination
to see Asper's grand idea come true, of Gail Asper's fortitude and
unflagging drive to make sure her father's most cherished project became
real, and of the countless others who lobbied, donated money,
volunteered time, and fought to make the museum happen.
Acclaimed writers Peter C. Newman and Allan Levine also tell the story
of the international competition to find an architect to design the
building, and of Antoine Predock, one of the finest architects in the
world who dared build an audacious museum.