On June 20, 2025, World Refugee Day came alive with warmth and humanity in Montreal, thanks to an evening organized by SINGA Québec.
Local residents, newcomers, partners, volunteers, and team members gathered to celebrate solidarity and highlight journeys that are often overlooked.
The evening also featured a video message of support from Ruba Ghazal, MNA for Québec solidaire and Leader of the Second Opposition Group at the National Assembly, praising the event’s impact, delivered through her political aide.
With 60 participants, the evening was fully booked, bringing together locals and newcomers—a record number of registrations reflecting the growing interest in local initiatives promoting inclusion and recognition in Quebec!
Attendees also included the Chair of SINGA Québec’s Board of Directors and several dedicated volunteers, symbolizing a vibrant and engaged community.
The event began with a complimentary Mediterranean buffet, inviting everyone to share a convivial meal accompanied by the enchanting sounds of the Oud.
A collective art project then allowed participants to express their creativity and diversity, followed by a screening of the film Dounia, in the presence of its director, Marya Zarif.
The film tells the story of Dounia, a young Syrian girl forced to leave her country and settle in a rural village in Quebec.
Accompanied by her grandparents, Jeddo and Téta Mouné, she discovers her new home, its language, culture, the harshness of its winters, as well as Indigenous traditions, through which she attempts to call upon spirits to reunite with her father who remained in Syria.
The screening was followed by a lively discussion led by Marya Zarif, sparking inspiring exchanges about exile, resilience, and the role of art in conveying migration stories.
Through music, shared experiences, and discovery, World Refugee Day 2025 in Montreal embodied the essence of SINGA: building bridges between communities, celebrating the richness of migration, and strengthening connections between people.
It was an inspiring evening full of momentum, paving the way for new initiatives and collaborations in the future. Many attendees discovered SINGA Québec and chose to join its activities, extending the spirit of connection well beyond the event.
📸 Event photos by Razan Elkhatib
(Photo credits: Razan Elkhatib – any reproduction requires permission from SINGA Québec.)