On the occasion of the Algerian Cultural Heritage Days which took place on April 27, 2023, at the Musée des métiers d’art du Québec (MUMAQ) in Montreal, the late Réda Brixi, founder and president of the Écomuseum of Algeria (ÉDA), delivered a strong message on the importance of collective memory, cultural preservation and intercultural dialogue.
A year after his death in 2025, it is important to remember his vision for the creation of the Algerian ecomuseum as a living tool at the service of the community.
A trained museologist and anthropologist, Réda Brixi recalled the fundamental mission behind the creation of the Écomuseum of Algeria in Montreal. Unlike traditional museums focused solely on the conservation of objects, the ecomuseum aims to be a participatory space, anchored in its territory and supported by the citizens themselves.
During his speech on the sidelines of the exhibition, he highlighted three essential areas of his commitment:
Anchoring memory in the heart of the diaspora: Offering generations of Algerian origin established in Canada a place of reference to reappropriate their history, their artisanal know-how and the cultural diversity of their regions (Kabylie, Aurès, Tlemcen, Oran, Algiers, etc.).
Promote living together with the host society: For Réda Brixi, sharing heritage was above all an invitation to meet. The ecomuseum aims to fully open up to Quebec society in order to stimulate mutual curiosity and strengthen social cohesion.
Find a permanent home base: While welcoming the warm welcome from MUMAQ, he expressed the wish to see the Écomusée de l’Algérie establish itself permanently in a fixed space in Montreal – ideally close to the Little Maghreb – to perpetuate its educational and cultural activities.
A lasting legacy
Through this exhibition bringing together traditional costumes, jewelry, brassware, leather goods, conferences and artistic workshops, Mr. Réda Brixi’s message resonated as a passionate plea for the living transmission of culture. His tireless commitment continues to inspire the preservation and influence of Algerian heritage in Quebec.
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