A Look Back at a Colorful Neighborhood Tour in Petite-Patrie
On June 13, TeC was in La Petite-Patrie to continue its tour of Montreal neighborhoods committed to socio-ecological transition, meet with local stakeholders, discuss their specific challenges, and learn about the methods they use. Despite the uncertain weather, the sun beat down hard on the neighborhood that afternoon, mirroring the energy radiated by the day’s participants.
Citizen Participation and Shared Governance in Socio-Ecological Transition was the theme chosen for the tour, which began with remarks by François Limoges, Mayor of the Rosemont-La-Petite-Patrie (RPP) borough. In his remarks, he highlighted the many initiatives related to citizen participation and socio-ecological transition in the RPP borough: “The borough wants to go even further and become a leader in public participation and socio-ecological transition!”
Next, during a walking and biking tour with three stops at iconic locations, we were able to witness the vibrant energy of community-led projects, third places, and organizations that are mobilizing and paving the way for the socio-ecological transition in Petite-Patrie.
At the Ateliers de la transition socio-écologique (ATSE), located at the corner of Christophe-Colomb and Beaubien—which houses several organizations—Espacedes Possibles, Locomotion , La Remise, and Solon Collectif presented their achievements and their role in the neighborhood.
“This is a project by and for the neighborhood’s residents. It’s a way to take control of your mobility!” Gabrielle Van Durme explained to us as she introduced LocoMotion Petite Patrie, a car-sharing initiative among neighbors.
Crucial issues such as the housing crisis, the sustainability of community organizations, and adaptation to climate change were discussed. During a stop at the La Petite-Patrie Social and Community Center, we learned that after a decade-long struggle, in 2021, 13 organizations succeeded in buying their premises to avoid being evicted and to ensure the long-term sustainability of their work: “Being grouped together fosters synergy and networking; it strengthens the neighborhood’s social fabric” (Manuel Cisneros). Major renovations to bring the building up to code are underway, including converting 79% of their parking area to green space: “We want to create a welcoming, beautiful, and eco-friendly space for the neighborhood.” (Roxanne Milot)
During the same stop, speakers told us about the Bellechasse project, a citizen- and community-led initiative working on the redevelopment of the former STM parking lot located at the intersection of St-Denis and Bellechasse: “This lot is the last one in the area that can meet the urgent need for social development! We want to dedicate this lot to social and community housing for a diverse population.” (Chloé Beaulieu)
Initiatives aimed at strengthening democracy and citizen participation—led by both organizations and the borough—were also discussed: the PPC Plaz’Art Verte project, spearheaded by citizens and supported by the borough; “Îleaux Volcans, ” a development project that will be made permanent following a citizen-jury processwith the borough; and the “Agoracitoyenne” of the Communauté des Possibles RPP, which will allow neighborhood residents to choose their collective priorities regarding the socio-ecological transition, will take place in November 2024, organized by Solon and neighborhood organizations.
“When we conducted surveys, the issue that came up most often was the lack of cleanliness. By focusing on greening the area and then adding works of art, we were able to enhance the space […] which in turn helped keep the street clean.” PPC Plaz’Art Verte, Laurier Beaudoin
Throughout the journey, we were also joined by Natacha Clintandre, an artist from La Petite-Patrie, who invited us to reflect on environmental elements such as sounds, smells, and colors as we moved through the city, helping us to incorporate art as a means of reflection and action for social and ecological transformation.
Finally, we were delighted to wrap up the day with a traditional happy hour, this time right inside the chalet at Père Marquette Park, inspired by the abundance of projects that were presented to us.
This visit would not have been possible without the organizational leadership of Solon Collectif and the Regroupement des tables de concertation de La Petite-Patrie (RTCPP), as well as the support of the RPP Borough. A big thank you to everyone who got involved and helped make this wonderful event a reality!