Experience Québec
Montréal Celebrates Diversity
Two is Better Than One
Montréal is one of the favourite destinations of the LGBT community (lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans) for two reasons: the city’s respect for cultural diversity and its creativity. For the past three years, two cultural events have headlined the summer months, and even though Mother Nature might not always accommodate the organizers, a colourful rainbow shines bright in the metropolis’ sky. Let the party begin! 
The streets of the Village is where the celebrations begin. Montrealers are an inseparable part of this celebration of diversity, and they adore partying. Not surprising then that two events are organized to mark this community’s pride.
But first a bit of history. In 1992, Divers/Cité took flight. Fourteen years had passed since the coming into effect of the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, making Québec the first state in North America to prohibit and condemn all forms of discrimination based on sexual orientation. Backed by this support, the LGBT community grew and decided to celebrate its pride in its own style.
The festival quickly grew, and the weekend of the first event saw a full week of shows and dance events highlighting the talents of local and foreign artists. Films, contemporary dance, variety shows and electronic music concerts illuminate Émilie-Gamelin Park and the big stage on Berri Street.
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Drag Night
Drag queens (female impersonators) project a strong image of the gay culture. Often criticized by their peers, they are in fact warriors–and supported. Each year, Divers/Cité–July 26 to August 2– pays tribute to these strange Amazons. Mascara, la nuit des Drags (Saturday, August 1), hosted by the steamy Mado Lamotte, draws close to 20 000 persons to the stage on Berri Street. 
Divers/Cité includes more than 55 hours of free, open-air performances scheduled over eight days. The event culminates with the Grande danse–Sunday, August 2–where more than 40 000 persons will dance to the rhythms of internationally renowned DJs. Consult the program by clicking on the following LINK.
Party On!
No doubt about it, Montrealers love a party! As a supplement to Divers/Cité, the second weekend of August, the Village comes alive with Célébrations de la fierté, and the highlight of the event is the famous march (Sunday, August 16, at 1 pm). This year marks the 40 years of Stonewall, and organizers have planned quite the ¡Fiesta!. Caramba!
Three Days of Discovery
Discover the cultural diversity of a community. This gay pride celebration includes cabaret shows, rock concerts, comedy, theatre, visual arts and dance at Émilie–Gamelin Park. Click HERE for the full schedule.
Montréal’s Village is an open, friendly and convivial neighbourhood. Everyone is welcome. For the second year, a one-kilometre section of Sainte-Catherine Street will be closed to automobiles, and welcome some 50 terraces of all kinds. During the two events, the Village will be even more festive than ever. Come take part in the celebrations!
André Quenneville
Photos: Divers/Cité (Jocelyn Michel), Célébrations 2009.
2009-08-21
