Unite Our Community: Little Burgundy Citizens Committee Rally’s for Change
The Little Burgundy Citizens Committee Organizes Community Rally to Fight for Equal Advocacy
On June 7th, 1968, the Little Burgundy Citizens Committee is hosting a community rally for residents affected by the current urban renewal crisis. The rally is set to take place at the front gates of City Hall from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. This rally will serve as a place for residents to unite and advocate for an equal voice in the future of citizen participation during the urban renewal of Little Burgundy.
Since May of 1976, the City of Montreal has begun initiating its plan of Urban Renewal in our home town Little Burgundy, with the section of St. Martin’s Blocks being the first affected. To date, this project has forced countless residents and families displaced and without safe or stable housing options.
When asking a local resident if they wanted to stay in Little Burgundy, they responded “yes, but under good conditions. We prefer our shacks to these houses because they feel like home. At least we don’t have to sell our freedom to have things a little better”. Along with this, countless displaced residents commented on seeking “freedom” above all else.
This community rally will serve as an opportunity for residents to unite and advocate for a voice in our future home. Throughout the event, there will be an opportunity for residents to tell their story. Additionally, members of the Citizens Committee will be sharing updates regarding the urban renewal project and advocacy efforts, and proposing a petition for all residents to sign demanding community-led development.
The Little Burgundy Citizens Committee of St. Martin’s Blocks is an organization, led by residents, to advocate for our rights. Over the years, the committee has made efforts to make our rights known in expropriation, marched to city hall and held public meetings, defined our aims and objectives and marched to the City Hall to discuss a housing plan. The efforts of the committee have shown signs of progress, but there is still work to be done when it comes to our rent-scale, leases, and the future of citizen participation. In an interview with a spokesperson from the committee, they noted that they “believe there should be joint management. The residents should have an equal voice in its administration. We hope this will lead to an urban renewal that is not only physical, but human”.
We urge all residents and neighbouring communities to come together to ensure our voices are heard and our rights are respected. Bring your friends, neighbours and any signs you may want to create in support of our cause.
Karisa Barker
barkerk20@mytru.ca