Using the arts to break down solitudes
Normand Forgues-Roy, Experience Congress
When Michaëlle Jean entered Rideau Hall in 2005, she decided to use “breaking down solitudes” as her motto. Upon her exit from Rideau Hall, she pursued this idea by founding the Fondation Michëlle Jean Foundation, over which she co-presides with her husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond.
The couple spoke of the Foundation’s work through the example of the North Point Douglas neighbourhood in Winnipeg, where the former Governor General had organized a forum to allow citizens to reclaim their community.
While travelling, the former Governor General says she encountered a feeling of growing malaise. For the couple, the arts are essential to breaking down all solitudes, because they allow all people to express their feelings, fears and hopes, and to extend a hand to others. “Culture is the antidote to our ills,” said Jean-Daniel Lafond.
Once solitudes are broken, democracy may prosper and young people can take part in their community, according to Michaëlle. Her husband concludes that a country that neglects its culture is culturally doomed.
For more information: www.fmjf.ca
