21. YUL Heritage-Pt. 1 — Hey Hugues & Jean-Sébastien

Montreal Host Éric introduces Hugues and Jean-Sébastien to discuss the intersections of queer history, community, sex and substance use. Hugues, a researcher of queer spaces, shares his experience in PnP culture viewed through a lens of strict moderation. Jean-Sébastien, founder of "Ça prend un village," discusses his transition from addiction to recovery advocacy, highlighting the power of real stories to counter fear-based narratives.  The group explores the link between HIV diagnosis and chemsex, with Hugues revealing how he once saw crystal meth as a potential "exit strategy." Jean-Sébastien echoes this, describing using drugs to navigate downfall on his own terms. Together, they unpack the history of "poz circles" as a sanctuary for sexuality free from stigma, ultimately finding that community connection.  If you’re looking for support, please explore our list of Chemsex resources/services. 🔗 Other Resources Mentioned  Ça prend un village (It Takes A Village): 4 testimonials from people who share their personal stories and explain how they came to build their own crystal meth recovery village. FOR guys in recovery, made BY guys in recovery. (In French only)  Relation toxique : portraits d’une dépendance (Toxic relationship: portraits of addiction): This podcast delves into the experiences of a dependent person. With testimonials from Mélanie, Jean-Sébastien, and Christian, this podcast dissects the stages of this ecstatic and devastating relationship. (In French only) PLDI : The Positive Leadership Development Institute: Organization that offers people living with HIV an opportunity to identify and develop their leadership and resilience skills in a safe environment by and for PLHIV.