Jeunesse Lambda is a FRENCH speaking group and all our activities are in French. However, for our visitors who are more fluent in English, and for any curious international visitors, we prepared this summary about who we are and what we do.
Who are we?
We are a group for young gays, lesbians, bisexuals or confused, ages 25 and below, in the greater Montreal area. As a not-for-profit organization, we count on the help of many motivated volunteers to carry our goals. They are: to offer the queer youth community of Montreal activities to unite, discuss, and help each other, as well as to raise public awareness on discrimination against the queer community. Jeunesse Lambda was established in 1987, when the French division of Lambda Youth became independent. We are currently housed at the CCGLM near the Village.
What does a Friday meeting look like?
Starting at 7 PM, there is a volunteer at the door to greet you. Within moments you are introduced to other participants. Some people seem to know each other for a long time, even though their first visit was a few weeks ago. At 7:30 PM, two volunteers come forward and announce the beginning of the discussion. The participants sit on chairs placed in a circle. There are anywhere between 20 to 40 participants every Friday. Participants must follow a few basic rules and be respectful and have an open mind.
After an initial question to introduce the participants, the discussion begins. Those who wish to voice their opinion can raise their hands or feel free to simply listen to the interesting anecdotes or concerns others have to share. There is a 30-minute break to stretch your legs, grab a bite or socialize with other people. At 10 PM, the discussion is over but the night begins. For those who wish to further socialize, the fun continues in a café nearby or in our own premises.
Why a discussion group?
We offer a great and casual alternative to meeting young people in bars, clubs or the Internet. We talk about issues that matter to us, such as coming out, the age of consent, public life, taboos, bisexuality, etc. It's an opportunity for people to share their experience with others, while letting those who are new in the coming-out process voice their concerns or ask questions. We are there primarily for the queer youth community, but people of any orientation, ages 25 and below, are welcome. We even have meetings once a year for the parents and one for the straight friends!
We are not a dating club. However, couples can sometimes form themselves during our meetings!
We are not a therapeutic group, as we have no psychologists or professionals. Only young gays, lesbians, bisexuals, determined to help each other out, but also to have fun!
We do not always stick to discussion groups. We sometimes have film screenings, team sports, parties and even improv nights!
Any other questions?
Feel free to drop us a line in French at info@jeunesselambda.org.
See you on Friday!
Summarized and translated by Sergio Ortega.
Last updated: March 2007.
| Jeunesse Lambda est membre de l'Association des lesbiennes et des gais sur Internet (ALGI). |