Handicap International built its first pyramid of shoes as a sign of protest against landmines and cluster munitions and as a symbol of solidarity toward the victims of landmines. It was last Saturday, September 8th, at the Emilie Gamelin Park in Montreal (Berri Square).

By joining Handicap International, everyone was invited to bring a pair of shoes in order to build a pyramid of shoes. In addition to its activist and Peace rally dimensions, the event was also a festive and joyful experience. The public was able to appreciate exciting bands that performed all day, especially the Hyposmics and the Psychotropical Orchestra.

There were activities for everyone: the day offered children's activities, African dancers, and landmine clearing demonstrations with Serge Effantin, a mine clearing expert who came from France for the occasion. NGOs such as M¨¦decins du Monde and Amnesty International held information booths at the event.

Several speakers came to give speeches in order to raise awareness about the problem of landmines and cluster munitions, in particular Sothea, a Cambodian who spoke about his difficult experience during the war in Cambodia.

Our objectives were reached!:
• More than 500 people attended the event.
• More than 1000 pairs of shoes were gathered at the end of the day in order to be sent to developing countries.
• About 500 people signed the petition.
• More than 40 volunteers came to the event to help us out.
• More than 1000 posters and 3000 flyers were placed and distributed all around Montreal.</P