Was it a dream or reality? The idea for the Centre Islamique Libanais in Montreal emerged in the early 1970s. It was a vision shared by Lebanese individuals who settled in Montreal.
The Centre Islamique Libanais moved several times. Finally, in 1993 a permanent location was purchased. Today, the Centre Islamique Libanais stands here.
The Centre Islamique Libanais is a charitable organization. Its doors are open to everyone regardless of religion or origin. Arabs and non-Arabs alike are welcome.
The Centre Islamique Libanais invites all citizens to speak. Discussions aim to promote understanding. They also shed light on societal issues and concerns.
Various committees dedicate time and energy here. They organize celebrations for community members. The Centre Islamique Libanais offers services for various occasions. These include marriage ceremonies and mourning events. Social evenings and informational sessions are also held.
The Lebanese community has a long history in Quebec. As early as 1910, Lebanese immigrants settled across the province. They lived in Mont-Joli, La Pocatière, and Trois-Rivières. By 1921, about 1,500 people of Syrian origin resided on the island of Montreal.
In 2006, Statistics Canada reported 75,000 Lebanon-born immigrants. Forty-six percent lived in Quebec. Forty-two percent lived in the metropolitan region of Montreal. From 1996 to now, the number of Quebec citizens born in Lebanon increased considerably. It went from 28,000 to 35,000.
Many factors influence where Lebanese immigrants choose to live. Religion plays a significant role. Some Christian communities maintain ties with French culture. This dates back to the French protectorate in the Middle East. Other communities prefer English schools for their children.
Economic status also affects residential choices. Middle-class families often settle in districts like Montreal North. Wealthier families live in areas like Mount Royal. Length of time in Canada is important. As immigrants gain financial stability, they may move to Laval.
According to the 2001 census, the Lebanese community is relatively young. Forty-five percent of its members are under 25. Most Lebanese Canadians speak English or French fluently. In terms of civil status, 54% were married. A small percentage were in common-law unions. Lebanese individuals in Quebec work in management, services, and sales. They are also present in engineering, mathematics, and sciences.
The Lebanese community in Canada reflects Lebanon’s religious diversity. In 2001, 42% of Lebanese were Catholic. Thirty percent were Muslim. Eleven percent were Christian Orthodox. Ten percent were Protestant or another group. Six percent had no religious affiliation.
In addition to the Centre Islamique Libanais, other places of worship exist. The first mosque in Quebec opened in 1965. It’s known as the Islamic Center of Quebec.
Lebanese immigrants have founded numerous associations. These reflect their political and religious differences. The Maronite Union of Canada and the Druze House are examples.
The Lebanese community actively participates in Montreal’s cultural life. The Arab World Festival and the Lebanese Festival of Montreal are key events. Lebanese newspapers and radio stations serve both Arabic and Francophone communities.
Lebanese artists and writers have enriched Quebec’s cultural scene. Abla Farhoud and Wajdi Mouawad are well-known playwrights. Paul Anka and K. Maro have achieved national and international success.
Lebanese immigrants are present in politics and various professions. Many have distinguished themselves in business, particularly in the food industry. The Adonis markets are a notable example.
Quebec and Lebanon share strong business and educational ties. The Lebanese-Canadian business community contributes to bilateral trade. Quebec offers scholarships for Lebanese students. These allow them to study in Quebec’s higher education institutions.
The Centre Islamique Libanais strengthens community ties. It helps newcomers develop a new ethno-cultural identity. It allows them to maintain sight of their origins. This creates what some call the “Libanus Quebec.”