You can contact us at: info@massimadi.ca
OUR HISTORY
The Massimadi Foundation continues the visionary work of Arc-en-ciel d’Afrique, the first organization in Quebec dedicated to LGBTQ+ people of African descent, active from 2002 to 2019.
Funtumfunefu Denkyemfunefu
This symbol represents two Siamese crocodiles sharing a single stomach, symbolizing unity in diversity and interdependence despite differences.
Sankofa
Represented by a backward-facing bird holding an egg, this symbol means "return and take," emphasizing the importance of learning from the past to build the future.
2002
Solange Musanganya, Didier Rwigamba, and Luc Doray are beginning to think about creating a space dedicated to LGBTQ+ people of African descent in Montreal.
This idea stems from a powerful observation: the invisibility of Black people in LGBTQ+ struggles and community spaces.
Naissance de la vision
2004
Official creation of Rainbow of Africa
While Quebec legalized same-sex marriage, LGBT people from African and Caribbean communities remained marginalized. It was in this context that Solange Musanganya, Didier Rwigamba, and Luc Doray founded Arc-en-ciel d'Afrique, a non-profit community organization aimed at:
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to break the isolation,
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to raise awareness in Quebec society,
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to promote Afro LGBTQ+ cultures,
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and to act in the prevention of STIs and HIV.
The organization quickly became a key player in intersectionality and a vector for community development.
2006
Rainbow of Africa is participating in the Montreal Pride march for the first time, marking the visible presence of Afro LGBTQ+ communities in public spaces.
First Steps in Pride
2009
Rainbow of Africa is participating in the Montreal Pride march for the first time, marking the visible presence of Afro LGBTQ+ communities in public spaces.
Birth of the Massimadi Festival
2013
A version of the festival is organized in Brussels by the association Les Identités du Baobab, extending Massimadi's reach internationally.
Massimadi s’exporte à Bruxelles
2014
Arc-en-ciel d'Afrique is creating Fierté Afro-Pride, a series of cultural activities during Montreal Pride Week, to affirm the place of LGBTQ+ people of African descent in the celebrations.
Launch of Afro-Pride
2016
An edition of the festival was scheduled to be held in Haiti in collaboration with activist Charlot Jeudy, but was canceled due to threats. This episode highlights the challenges facing LGBTQ+ rights in the region.
Attempted edition in Port-au-Prince
2016
Une nouvelle structure voit le jour pour poursuivre et renforcer la mission : la Fondation Massimadi. Elle devient le pilier de la diffusion artistique, de la sensibilisation et du soutien aux talents afro LGBTQ+.
Creation of the Massimadi Foundation
2019
After 15 years of commitment, the organization is ceasing its activities. Its living legacy continues through Massimadi.
Arc-en-ciel d’Afrique closes
2021
A new format of outdoor artistic performances, “Massimadi en rue” is part of a desire for proximity to the community, through culture and local action.
Massimadi launches on the street
2022
The festival offers a rich selection of 29 films from over 10 countries, available for free online. The themes explore rebirth, physicality, resilience, and love.
A 14th edition that is 100% digital
2023
The Massimadi Foundation has created Momentum, a screenwriting mentoring program dedicated to LGBTQ+ creators of African descent.
Designed to support the next generation and structure an ecosystem of Afro-queer creation, Momentum offers:
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professional workshops,
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personalized support,
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and a development grant for selected projects.
Launch of the Momentum program
2023
Le Festival Massimadi célèbre ses 15 ans de résistance, de création et de fierté afro queer.
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Cette édition anniversaire est l’occasion de revisiter les luttes et les élans artistiques qui ont marqué l’histoire du festival, tout en affirmant une vision tournée vers l’avenir : plus inclusive, plus transversale, plus engagée.
15 years of the Massimadi Festival