The first in a diary following the some members of MobGlob as they experience the peoples summit and includes some tips for activists heading to Quebec.

Atlantic Mobilization for Global Justice Arrives in Quebec ( first in a diary)


The Atlantic Mobilization for Global Justice (MobGlob) arrived in Quebec after leaving Sackville, N.B. around 3 PM on Monday, April 16. We picked up about fifteen people in Fredericton and on we went to Quebec City. After spending several fun hours on the bus singing songs, talking, and in general having a fun time, we arrived in Quebec City. For those who don’t know, Quebec City is confusing and big. We searched for several hours for our assigned sleeping quarters (a word to the wise, make sure that you know the whether you are looking for a rue or avenue before arriving and be prepared to bring some money for bus tickets ($1.75/ticket or $2.25 cash)) we found them. Some initial confusion then issued as we had some english/french translation problems with our new hosts but we were soon settled into our new home in a converted police station (complete with jail cells)!

Waking up four hours later we headed off to the peoples summit. More confusion ensued as once again we were lost. We eventually got accurate directions from someone and found the building containing the environment forum (once again another word to the wise, the buildings are not obvious and so make sure you know the location or preferably the building number).

The forums seem to work in this faction, there is a general meeting with speeches in the morning and then workshops in the afternoon along with workshops the next day. Lunch is served somewhat later than usual at around 1 PM and costs extra money. The forums are well organized and are very interesting with translation services provided freely.

In terms of Quebec City itself, the fence is not yet set up but sections are built, it is not intimidating at all. Blockades are also placed in front of all major buildings and Hotels. Vieux Quebec (old Quebec) is on a large hill with the summit of the Americas being held at the top of it. Most of the Peoples Summit pavilions and forums are at the bottom of the hill with some being held across the river. Free internet access is available on one of two computers at a bar called “Scanner