On November 24th, F.A.C.E High school participants in the “My City, My Safety!” project went over the observations they had made during their first safety audit walk, reflected on creative solutions for the problems identified around their school, and began identifying relevant actors to whom they could present their recommendations.
This activity will have contributed to deepen their understanding of the urban spaces in which they navigate. Participants indicated a new, heightened awareness of certain characteristics of their environment, such as the total absence of garbage around their school (in Downtown Montreal!), or the sorry state of some sidewalks that can sometimes turn walking into an extreme sport!
The girls also gained knowledge on their rights as users of public space. To reclaim one’s rights with decision-making instances, there are mechanisms in place, such as the 311 service that anyone can use to signal minor infrastructure problems to the city of Montreal… But, when we are talking about more important demands, such as circulation problems linked to urban development on University street which can endanger F.A.C.E students, our participants felt rather powerless. Indeed, there are forums for citizens to express their concerns, notably at the borough level, or other public consultations targeting youth specifically. However, such events rarely benefit from much visibility.
The girls also took part in a drawing exercise aiming to list the places/events/activities they love most in Montreal. This was a great way to realise how much our city is an integral part of our daily life experience, and to encourage youth to be involved in its development! 
