Achi news desk-
It’s a dream that has been taking shape for over 40 years for those who live in the village of Montreal: a complex that brings together community organizations, LGBTQ2S+ people and locals under one roof.
Espace LGBTQ+ was able to buy a large vacant commercial building on Ste. Catherine Street East last fall with the help of the City of Montreal, provincial grants and private donors.
“The LGBTQ complex that we want to accept and share will be made by connecting with different organizations and thinking, intersectionality, thinking about the different needs in the community and the village,” said the vice president of Espace LGBTQ+, Desiree Duchene.
However, the space needs a lot of love and money.
“One of the main things why we’re asking for money is to be able to get an elevator and accessible toilets, and for it to be for the community, not just a part of it, but for everyone,” Duchene said.
The group applied for funding from the Federal Ministry of Infrastructure in February 2023, and is hoping for $7 million to renovate the 2,000 square meter building.
While the project is currently in its early stages, it is already resonating with some members of the community.
“There are a lot of restaurants and bars around, so it will be a good change, and I think it’s a good place where people can meet,” said Joseph Suarez, who works in the village.
“I feel like right now there’s a lot of issues of gentrification and also loneliness and I think this can solve, well help at least, combat those issues,” Village resident Rich Lee said.
Espace LGBTQ+ is also supported by its partners.
Montreal Pride CEO Simon Gamache said the complex will also help community groups financially.
“We need these dedicated buildings for community organizations with adequate rents,” he said. “And that’s what it’s something you can get in this building.”
CTV News reached out to the Canadian Department of Infrastructure for comment but did not receive a response.
Espace LGBTQ+ does not know if it will receive the funding but it is working hard to make the space a reality.
“We cannot give up on this dream,” said Espace LGBTQ+ strategic advisor Kenny Bolduc. “We won’t, and we need money to fully realize this dream, and this program is built for that.”
