Interligne, the help and information centre for those concerned with sexual and gender diversity, is proud to announce that Sophie Paradis, Simon Boulerice, Gabrielle Boulianne-Tremblay and Nicolas Ouellet are teaming up as spokespersons for the organization.
Last June, Gai Écoute became Interligne to better show support for those of all sexual orientations and gender identities. “In order for the diversity and inclusion signal to be heard, we needed to surround ourselves with spokespersons who represent different LGBTQ+ realities,” explains Pascal Vaillancourt, Executive Director of Interligne.
Their mission? To support Interligne’s awareness initiatives, to encourage people to ask for help and to serve as positive role models for LGBTQ+ individuals. “We are thrilled that Sophie, Simon, Gabrielle and Nicolas have accepted the challenge. These are four passionate people with accomplished careers who have inspiring messages to share,” adds Mr. Vaillancourt.
It is with enthusiasm that actor Sophie Paradis, well known amongst the Quebecois population for her role in L’Auberge du chien noir and Mémoires vives, has joined the team. “I want to be involved because I am a lesbian; I have created a family with same-sex parents; I have given life to a beautiful boy and I want his life to be easier than mine was and than was that of many other people,” she says. “I wish with all my heart that my involvement, my reflections, and my actions raise further awareness about Interligne and helps at least a few people.”
Breaking the feeling of isolation that is still present within the LGBTQ+ communities is what inspired Simon Boulerice to get involved with Interligne. “Through my books, I try to make small-scale contributions. But the platform offered to me as a spokesperson allows for my beliefs about equality to shine brighter,” says the Artistic Co-director of Arrière Scène and author of over 40 books, including Simon a toujours aimé danser, Javotte, Edgar Paillettes, Florence et Léon and L’Enfant mascara.
Poet and actor Gabrielle Boulianne-Tremblay, activist for trans realities, was touched by the invitation to take part in Interligne’s initiatives. Discovered in 2015 in Ceux qui font les révolutions à moitié n’ont fait que se creuser un tombeau, Gabrielle wishes to raise awareness of trans issues and encourage trans people to seek help if they need it. “I think it is essential that trans people be able to identify with and have confidence in Interligne,” she adds.
Plurality, inclusion and equality are the issues that drive radio host and columnist Nicolas Ouellet. Much appreciated by VRAK and Radio-Canada audiences, Nicolas did not hesitate to join the team of spokespersons as an ally: “Getting involved with Interligne means moving from words toward action as a partisan for change and all diversities, and moving from the role of silent supporter to that of committed participant,” he says. “I wish that people from all over identify with my humble approach as an ally and […] take the time to get informed and, ideally, commit.” he adds.
We invite you to consult the entire press kit to discover Interligne and learn more about biographical notes, quotes, photos and video excerpts of the team of spokespersons: http://interligne.co/en/spokespersons/