Montréal, October 16, 2018 ¬¬— This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Fonds de solidarité FTQ. Discover an economic and social innovation unique to Québec and help commemorate its remarkable history. The Fonds de solidarité has been appealing to worker solidarity for over three decades. Its mandate: create and protect jobs, make it possible for everyone to save, and help further the Québec economy. From November 15 to December 2, 2018, the Écomusée du fier monde is presenting One vision, many stories – 35 years of the Fonds de solidarité FTQ, an exhibition retracing its history and showing the Fonds’ impact in the community over the years.
Thanks to the contribution of the Fonds de solidarité FTQ, entry to the museum is free for the duration of the exhibition.
A fund for and by workers
In the early 1980s, Québec faced its worst recession since the Great Depression. Compelled to act following massive plant closures that left hundreds of thousands of people unemployed, FTQ president Louis Laberge came up with the idea to create a permanent fund to support employment. On February 3, 1984, despite the skepticism of the media and business community, and the debates incited within the labour movement, the Fonds FTQ was born.
One vision, many stories
The exhibition shows how the Fonds de solidarité FTQ became an important economic and social tool in Québec and how its founders instilled strong values into this collective movement. Through documents, photographs and videos, you will discover how this vision is now being expressed through thousands of stories shaped by the current and future builders of Québec. See firsthand accounts from the principle actors of this extraordinary history such as Louis Laberge and Fernand Daoust, who recount how the Fonds has fundamentally changed Québec’s economy over the last 35 years.
A history and community museum
The Écomusée du fier monde is a history museum that promotes grassroots involvement. You are invited to explore little known facets of Montréal culture. Discover the daily life of the working class and follow the inspiring journeys of grassroots groups. Visit the Écomusée exhibitions and the former Généreux public bath, a magnificent example of 1920s architecture.