Night for the Homeless: Discovering the many facets of homelessness

The presentation of three testimonials from people experiencing homelessness was at the heart of the awareness-raising evening organized as part of the 35th edition of Nuit des sans-abri at Philips Square—Émilie-Gamelin Park in Montreal, on October 18.

Following a solidarity march, this vigil brought together a large crowd of people who had come to meet some homeless people and to express their support.  

As in previous years, organizers set up the park with booths offering a variety of services: referrals for various resources, distribution of sanitary products, food (hot soup, hot dogs, etc.) and, of course, Father Emmett “Pops” John’s trailer. Games of skill with different objects gave youngsters a chance to demonstrate their skills.

Testimonials

In addition to the presence of many young people, Sr. Claudette Bastien, snjm, was touched by the testimonies of three people experiencing homelessness. “The three people told us how they ended up on the street as a result of multiple problems—from drugs to poverty, including rejection and conflict with family.”

The first to testify was from the Gaspé area of Quebec. He explained that he was looking for his missing brother. He remains on the street because he hopes to find him homeless in one or other of Montreal’s neighborhoods.

“The second told us that he wanted to be free to do what he wanted, which is not possible in shelters that impose rules to facilitate community life,” Sr. Claudette pointed out.

An English speaker was the last to testify. He switched from one language to another with a pronounced accent, sometimes difficult to understand. The audience, which applauded each witness warmly, redoubled its support for him, recognizing his efforts to describe his situation.

According to Sr. Claudette, the presentation of testimonials had the merit of illustrating the various realities of homelessness. “It immerses us in their daily lives, their suffering and their quest for well-being.” A regular at these annual gatherings, Sr. Claudette appreciated this new addition to the program.

Also present in Longueuil

Sr. Denise Riel and Sr. Lisette Boulé, the other two members of the Quebec Leadership Team (PLT), also took part in the rally and walk at St. Mark’s Park in Longueuil. According to the organizing committee, the 26th Longueuil edition saw its highest participation rate since its inception.

Equally revealing were the testimonies of young people who have stayed at the Auberge du cœur L’Antre-Temps, and of three clients supported by the Casa Bernard-Hubert organization. While the causes of homelessness are manifold, those present were made aware of the many challenges faced by the homeless in their quest for autonomy.

Among the many information and food stands was one from Collège Durocher-Saint-Lambert (CDSL). Hosted by some fifteen dynamic youngsters, passers-by were invited to design their own drawings and buttons.

“Thank you for being there”

Both in Longueuil and in Montreal, participants toured the site and met with workers and homeless people. One of them thanked Sr. Claudette for being there.

The October 18 vigil was preceded by a city-wide homelessness awareness week. In addition, this year’s spokesperson, Samian, a rapper and multi-talented individual, unveiled a unique song in the form of a letter to his father. Originally from Pikogan, a small Anishinabe community in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, he shared his personal story of homelessness.

After years of not seeing his father, he found him on a street corner in Montreal. Here’s the link to listen to the song (in French only).

Photos credit: Sr. Claudette Bastien