MINUTES – PUBLIC – YOUTH COMMISSION – 6th meeting – June 6, 2026 – 1:10 p.m. to 4:10 p.m.

Presentation

Laurence Tremblay and Dominic Faucher present phase 2 of an awareness campaign regarding living together in Gatineau, carried out in collaboration with the Commission du vivre-ensemble. This initiative aims to fight against prejudice, discrimination, and microaggressions, which remain present in different environments and age groups. It is noted that the new phase is based on findings from public consultations, which demonstrate the importance of favoring an approach focused on dialogue rather than a moralizing tone. The goal is to foster authentic and accessible exchanges, allowing for a raising of awareness among citizens.

The proposed concept consists of organizing public discussions in the form of "conversation tables" in various locations such as schools, libraries, events, and parks. These exchanges, focusing on concrete situations related to prejudice, could be filmed to produce content for social media and to ensure the longevity of the campaign. Several complementary avenues are also presented, notably role-playing or carrying out field activations aimed at provoking reactions, the creation of video content inspired by testimonials and real experiences, as well as the use of posters and visuals to support the campaign. It is specified that the preferred tone is intended to be inclusive, non-judgmental, and engaging.

Finally, the presenters emphasize the importance of involving members of the Youth Commission in the co-creation of initiatives, particularly regarding the choice of themes and intervention locations, participation in discussions, as well as the development of the concept and the name of the campaign.

Exchange Period

Following the presentation, the members of the CJ (Youth Commission) take part in an exchange period regarding various aspects of the campaign's implementation. Discussions focus notably on deployment methods, with several members suggesting exploring different approaches to maximize impact on the population. Ideas are formulated regarding the use of role-playing or immersive experiences aimed at provoking reactions and encouraging reflection among citizens. Members also discuss the choice of deployment locations, highlighting the importance of favoring varied and accessible environments, such as parks, schools, and neighborhood events, in order to reach a diversity of audiences. Certain concerns are raised regarding the supervision of activities, particularly concerning the consent of participants, especially when it involves young people, the relevance of filming certain activities, as well as the need to adapt interventions to avoid creating discomfort or intimidation. The exchanges also highlight the importance of selecting participants for activities, with some members emphasizing the need to favor participants capable of contributing to constructive discussions, while avoiding the reinforcement of extreme positions. Finally, various avenues for collaboration and resources are proposed, notably the use of volunteers or people from the artistic or school community, the integration of intergenerational approaches, as well as the adaptation of activity formats according to contexts (school environment, public spaces, etc.).

Following the elements presented by the members of the Commission, the presenters specify that these elements will be taken into consideration in the development of the campaign and reiterate their desire to co-construct the initiatives with the members of the Youth Commission. Roxanne Portelance, coordinator, invites members to send her their requests or follow-ups related to the campaign, so that she can ensure follow-up with the presenters.

The elected co-chair informs the members that an email has been received requesting the support of the Youth Commission and reads it. This email presents the "Au-delà des stéréotypes" (Beyond Stereotypes) project, for which support is requested in the form of a letter of support to be submitted to the Secrétariat à la condition féminine. The project aims to develop, over a two-year period (from 2027 to February 2029), an awareness workshop as well as an intervention guide intended for adults accompanying young people aged 11 to 17, in order to deconstruct sexual and gender stereotypes, in a context marked by the rise of certain discourses. It is aimed at all of Quebec, with particular attention to the Gatineau region and the presence of young people on social networks. It is specified that the resources developed will be made available to youth environments to support stakeholders and promote egalitarian relationships in a safe environment.

The members of the Youth Commission are invited to decide on the signing of a letter of support, which will be attached to the project submission scheduled for June 21, 2026.

Recommendation CJ-2026-04

Considering that the Youth Commission has the mandate to address issues affecting youth; Considering that the proposed project is in accordance with the objectives of the action plan of the Stratégie municipale d'action jeunesse (Municipal Youth Action Strategy);

The Youth Commission recommends support for the project within the framework of the call for projects of the Secrétariat à la condition féminine submitted by the organization AGIR Outaouais.

It is proposed by Adélia Demers, seconded by Ella Burron. Adopted.