Cultural Crossroads
How might we better understand identity in places of cultural and historical intersection?
Why Quebec?
Quebec is the last major French Speaking region in North America. While New France didn’t survive, the unique history here has allowed French culture and language to live on in Quebec. From the First Nations people long before the colonial times to the shifting patterns of migration today, the definition of what makes someone a Quebecer is constantly evolving.
We will explore the old streets of Quebec City, now the capital of Quebec, and visit cultural sites important to the First Nations people, to trace the legacy of the indigenous, francophone, and anglophone people in the region and, depending on the season, see how the Quebecers make the most of the weather (snow or shine!).
In Montreal we will see how this city operates in two languages and how the French identity of Quebec fits within Canada. Whether walking through old ports and villages or enjoying a bite to eat at a Montreal cafe or a sugar shack, we'll experience what makes Quebec special, and consider how communities grapple with the intersections of identity in a linguistically diverse world.
Suggested Itinerary
Students will investigate the project question by getting to know Quebec City and Montreal as a place, along with the people who live there, tinkering with ideas together to apply what they are learning, and sharing reflections, insights, and aha moments with others.
Indigenous and French Legacy: 0-4 Nights
Quebec City, Quebec
Explore the narrow streets of the upper and lower town and experience how this riverside city can transport you back in time. Learn about the history of the province and French trade routes from locals. We can also get out of the old city to learn about the First Nations in the region and visit a sugar shack too. In the winter explore some of the regions festive activities, or the Winter Carnival, and in the summer enjoy the natural beauty along the river.
Diversity in a Bilingual City: 0-4 Nights
Montreal, Quebec
Continue to the largest city of the province, Montreal, as we visit the diverse neighborhoods of the city. From the French speaking plateau to the historical heart of the city in Old Montreal, see how this city operates in two languages and how it maintains the careful balance of being open to all, yet keeping its own identity.
Explore the diversity of cuisines in the city as we try a poutine, bagel, or cannoli, visit the Jean-Talon market and hunt for some Haitian, Cambodian, or North African food around the city. With a history of fostering diversity through multiculturalism, people from all over have established neighborhoods in Montreal; the quartier portugais, Little Italy, and petit Maghreb, to name a few.
Want to Learn More?
Custom Programs and Modifications
We have designed this itinerary to maximize the value and breadth of our project and program. We can modify any program, or we can plan an entirely custom program. This itinerary could be adapted to focus on more specific learning outcomes, visit different regions, hit a different price point, combine with another program, or cover a longer or shorter schedule based on the group’s needs.
