Montreal Has A Beautiful New Tribute To Raphaël Napa André
A new light projection on the outside wall of the Open Door organization "honours the resilience of Aboriginal people experiencing homelessness and pays tribute to Raphaël Napa André," according to a press release from the City of Montreal.
The projection by MAPP_MTL is the work of Annik Boivin, Aboriginal artist Isaac Murdoch and mapping technician Simon Rock.
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Every person has a story, and every loss is a story that goes away.
Marie-Eve L. Bordeleau, Commissioner of Aboriginal Relations
It consists of drawings, images from André's family and community in Matimekosh – Lac John and music by Innu artists.
André passed away outdoors after curfew in the night of January 16 near Open Door, an organization he regularly visited.
His death led to calls for the provincial government to exempt unhoused Quebecers from the curfew. The Legault government's refusal to create the exemption produced widespread outcry.
A superior court judge later ruled that the curfew does not apply to homeless people.
"The tragic circumstances of Raphaël Napa André's death have upset all Montrealers," Mayor Valérie Plante said in a statement.
"With this light projection, we wish to honour the memory of Mr. André by highlighting his story with photos, drawings in his honour and written messages."
The Native Women's Shelter has also set up a large heated tent in Cabot Square in André's honour which is open to people experiencing homelessness and who are seeking shelter during curfew hours.
The light projection on Open Door will be up from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m between February 11 and 14 with an additional projection on February 27.
Open Door is located at 3535 avenue du Parc.