Our
mission
Too many are the MENA countries (Middle East and North Africa) which still criminalize homosexuality. These intolerable laws even have repercussions in Montreal, where LGBTQ people from these countries often live in fear and isolation.
Helem Montreal therefore wishes to be a place of activism, awareness, debate, reflection, training and socialization.
Helem Montreal aims to fight homophobia within the Arabic-speaking community of Montreal by promoting the visibility of LGBTQ people.
In addition, Helem strives to protect LGBTQ Arabic speakers who face rejection, prejudice, discrimination, fear…
Prizes and awards
Supporting the message "It's your homophobia in my face", the walkers wore a white mask to emphasize that even today, many of us are silenced. Helem Montreal thus strongly denounced the attacks on freedom of expression, by sending a strong message to activists and encourage them to continue promoting peace, justice, compassion and acceptance
The theme of the parade was "Red". Helem's presence was simple but effective: red pants and faces painted red on one side. the concept represented the double life that many LGBT people have to live in order to stay safe. This message touched many spectators but also the jury. It was the fourth time that Helem has been awarded for his participation in the parade.
The theme of the parade was "Our flag, our pride". Helem had very colorful costumes inspired by the six colors of the rainbow flag, as well as a chariot representing the marriage of people of the same sex. It was the third time that Helem has been awarded for his participation in the parade.
The theme of the parade was "The Odyssey of the Future" and Helem was chosen as the group with the best costumes and make-up thanks to body painting and futuristic costumes that really stood out. This is the second time that Helem has won this award!
On October 27, 2008, during the 5th edition of the Arc-en-ciel gala, Rémy Nassar, President of Helem Mtl, was among the list of nominees in the Volunteer par excellence category. Although he did not win the title, Rémy was the only nominee this year, from an ethnic LGBT group and thus, Helem was the only ethnic group to be represented at the gala.
On July 29, 2007, Helem participated for the 4th consecutive time in the gay pride parade in Montreal. Under the theme of the Four elements: water, earth, air, fire that the organizers had given to the parade, Helem stood out with colorful Phoenician costumes rich in symbolism!
This prize was awarded to the initiative and event of the student community environment which had the greatest impact on gay youth. The evaluation criteria were the quality of the event for the allosexual youth community, the spinoffs and the commitment in the community.
Partners
and allies
