Solidarity in Lebanon: June 2011

A Canadian cocktail in Montreal

When individuals from across the nation meet, the label “Canadian” reveals its colorful, multifaceted, and sometimes controversial subtext. Arriving in Our Lady of Fatima camp on the edge of Montreal, the participants of the Development and Peace Solidarity Trip to Lebanon converged to begin with three days of orientation.

There was also training related to inter-cultural communication, group dynamics, and public-awareness raising (sensibilisation in french). We soon became aware of our innate differences and the potential for mistranslation, which gave us the opportunity to explore this wonderful mélange we know as Canada:

• Melodie and Steve are from Montreal at UQAM
• Amelie and Genevieve are from Ottawa/Gatineau region and help us with translation
• Alex and Amanda are from Ontario and Manitoba, and are social workers
• Jacques is from Victoria and Angelique is from Montreal, both doing their masters at university
• Marie-Helene and Genevieve are our trusty and intrepid organizers

In a few hours we will head to the airport to begin the exciting journey to our long awaited destination of Beirut. Various methods to remediate the anguish of jet lag are being employed, but anticipation will likely keep energy levels high while we shuffle our way out of thrombosis.

Amanda and Jacques

 Our aim is to share some of what we learn throughout our journey with you.  We expect new and stimulating experiences from the people, the land, and the culture.

Check back soon, Peace!

PS – Here is the link to all our blog posts!