Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

On International Day of Living Together in Peace, Action Gatineau head Maude Marquis- Bissonnette presented her commitment to making Gatineau a more inclusive and attentive city.

Representing 88 cultural communities throughout the territory, Gatineau is considered one of the main immigration gateways in Quebec. But growing diversity presents challenges in terms of reception, integration of immigrants, and living together.

While Gatineau has developed a program of intercultural activities that promote openness and integration, the mayoral candidate would like to offer more meeting spaces for Gatineau residents of all origins like an intercultural centre.

“There is a desire in the community to develop this project,” Marquis-Bissonnette wrote in a press release. “I want to work with the community to bring this project back to the forefront and see how the City can contribute.”

She added Gatineau could even complete the offer of reception services to newcomers by explaining the services offered by the City, such as snow removal or garbage and recycling pickup.

“The role of cities in the integration of immigrants is a subject that is very close to my heart. First, as an organization, the City of Gatineau must better reflect diversity. As mayor, I want to make sure I seek out talent from everywhere and ensure their full integration,” wrote Marquis-Bissonnette.

If elected mayor, the Action Gatineau candidate intended to add her voice to those of the large cities like Sherbrooke and Longueuil to ensure Quebec’s hubs and host organizations receive the resources needed.

“This is a subject that I know very well through my research work and my involvement in several organizations. I know that they play a strategic role and offer valuable support services. Newcomers and organizations can count on me to assert their interests and their needs with Quebec.”

Photo caption: Backed by district councillors and Action Gatineau members Tiffany-Lee Norris Parent and Bettyna Bélizaire, party head Maude Marquis-Bissonnette shares her intention to support the addition of an intercultural centre to Gatineau.

Photo credit: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette Facebook