Stories that inspire
The Association hispano-québécoise de la Montérégie (AHQM)
Previously known as the Association hispanique et latino-américaine de Boucherville et de la Rive-Sud, in 2023 the Association hispano-québécoise de la Montérégie (AHQM) was officially founded by a committee of six individuals of diverse origins: Chile, Peru and Quebec. The catalyst for the creation of the Association was Luis Zuniga, a Boucherville resident of Chilean origin, subsequent to the adoption by Quebec’s National Assembly of Bill 1094, which proclaimed the month of October to be Hispanic Heritage Month. In September of 2022, Mr. Zuniga had already organized an initial event in Boucherville showcasing Latino culture.
Aiming to “create synergies between individuals from Hispanic cultural backgrounds and the host community of Quebec”, Mr. Zuniga and the committee decided to form an association. The AHQM seeks to be a “meeting place where Quebecer, Hispanic and Latin American cultural richness blend, and where, through sharing and exchanges, new ties develop”. To achieve that, the Association works to build awareness of Latin American cultures. It has also contributed to the creation of a friendship and sharing network that brings together individuals from Latin America, Spain and the Montérégie, and hopes to integrate elements of Latino culture and history into Quebec’s heritage.
Every autumn, during Hispanic Heritage Month, the AHMQ puts out the welcome mat for anyone interested in discovering and celebrating Latin American culture and food. Dance, music, food stands and information kiosks highlighting the countries of that region are on offer. As well, various Montérégie organizations are on hand to explain the services they provide. On September 30, 2023, the gathering drew more than 260 people. Definitely something to build on!