Social gatherings in exclusive networks are experiencing growth
In the picturesque town of Wakefield, Quebec, a new community singing group has taken root in 2021. Founded by Néve Dumas, the ensemble has quickly become a beacon of unity and cultural exchange.
The group, composed of a dozen women and one man, has its sights set on a unique project. They plan to reconstruct a Fille du Roy's wedding at the Maison Saint-Gabriel, in Montreal, on August 30th. This historical reenactment aims to bring a fresh perspective to historical education, as the group believes that embodying historical figures in a lively way can add a new dimension to the learning experience.
Néve Dumas, the group's leader, is no stranger to the power of community engagement. In 2024, she was awarded the Governor General's Literary Award for her poetry collection, Poème dégénéré*. Her work often explores themes of coexistence, learning from others, and the importance of coming together.
The group's repertoire includes Sacred Harp singing, a choral music tradition from the southern United States. Néve Dumas was introduced to this unique style in 2015, and it has since become a cornerstone of their community gatherings. In Sacred Harp singing, participants are seated in four groups facing each other around a central square. A different person leads the singing for each musical piece, fostering an environment of shared leadership and collaboration.
The quality of social ties has become transactional in modern society, according to Jean-Philippe Warren, a sociologist at Concordia University. However, the Wakefield community singing group stands as a testament to the enduring need for affiliation and regrouping. Annie Camus, president of the Quebec Leisure Council, agrees, stating that coming together with others is about keeping society alive.
Joining social clubs or artistic organizations fosters social connections and community engagement by creating meaningful relationships, increasing trust, and motivating collective action in communities. These memberships encourage networking, teamwork, and volunteering, which strengthen both individual bonds and the broader community fabric.
Some key benefits of joining such clubs include building trust and relationships, boosting civic engagement, providing mentoring and social support, developing soft skills and leadership, promoting mental and public health, encouraging volunteering, and a culture of caring, and fostering a sense of belonging.
The group also holds monthly historical animation days at the Souvenir Park in Varennes and collaborates with the Living History Group of the Filles du Roy, which offers training and animation services. The Laurentian Scrabble Club, with around thirty members, meets weekly to play Scrabble at the Saint-Laurent Leisure Centre, another example of the vibrant social scene in the area.
In summary, social and artistic organizations act as crucial social infrastructure that nurtures interpersonal connections and active participation, driving both personal growth and vibrant, resilient communities. The Wakefield community singing group is a shining example of this, bringing people together through music, history, and a shared love for community engagement.
