Young people discovering municipal democracy

With the approach of the first simultaneous municipal elections in Québec, two initiatives for young people deserve to be underscored: the Virtual Council for Young Montréalers and Démokratia, for young Laval residents.

In Montréal

In early February, the Maison de jeunes l’Hôte Maison launched the Virtual Council. It is an interactive game centering on education in democracy that allows young Montréalers from 12 to 19 years of age to participate in the election campaign and in the municipal election of the Virtual City of Montréal. Through this game, young people can familiarize themselves with the workings of municipal politics while having fun on the Web. What is particularly interesting about this project is that in order to obtain relevance points or to increase their popularity score, participants must get involved in their community. Here are some examples of actions that generate points: Take part in the municipal council, interview an elected official or be photographed with him, write an opinion on a municipal issue in a student newspaper or a local weekly newspaper, become a member of a community organization or a student council...

Pay a visit to Conseilvirtuel.com (in French only). Some sections of the site are still under construction, but you’ll get a good idea of the project. Young Montréalers can already register and begin to play!

In Laval

The Forum jeunesse Laval is looking for young people to take part in Démokratia. This one-of-a-kind activity will allow participants to discover the municipal world by simulating a Council where young people will have the role of municipal councillors or citizens. Démokratia will be a place of learning, exchanges, debates and decisions.

Who is it for? For young Laval residents aged 16 to 25.
When? On April 22nd from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and on April 23rd from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where? At Laval City hall.
How much? It’s free!

For more information, get in touch with Mélissa Giroux at (450) 686-4343 or by e-mail at m.giroux@crelaval.qc.ca.

Let’s hope that these projects provide inspiration for other ideas!