Futur Montréal presents Bénita Jacques as candidate for mayor of Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension

Futur Montréal presents Bénita Jacques as candidate for mayor of Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension
A renowned filmmaker and community builder ready to offer bold and human leadership
Montreal, QC, September 17, 2025 – Futur Montréal is proud to announce the candidacy of Bénita Jacques for the position of Mayor of Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension. Filmmaker, actress, producer, and advocate for cultural inclusion, Jacques is a native Montrealer who brings a bold and compassionate vision. Having grown up in the borough and attended high school in Saint-Michel, she drew from this territory the passion that drives her today. She proposes a vision focused on concrete results: safer streets, affordable housing, vibrant commercial arteries, and real opportunities for families and youth. “Bénita is authentic, determined, and ready to act,” said Jean-François Kacou, head of Futur Montréal. “Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension deserves leadership that listens and acts. Bénita knows how to unite people and turn ideas into action.” “I am proud to support Bénita Jacques,” said Joel DeBellefeuille, co-founder and executive director of Futur Montréal. “His entire career has been built on dignity, fairness, and community pride. That’s exactly the spirit this neighborhood needs today.” Jacques’ campaign will focus on four urgent priorities:

• Tangible safety through smart prevention, better lighting and better coordination between community groups and services.
• A housing strategy that works by speeding up permits for family housing, protecting tenants and using underutilized municipal spaces to create new homes.
• Stronger commercial arteries by reducing red tape, supporting small businesses and bringing public spaces to life all year round.
• Youth, culture and sport by expanding access to extracurricular activities, providing micro-grants for community projects and creating partnerships that make art and sport accessible to all young people.

“I’m running to restore a human sense to public service,” said Bénita Jacques. “When a parent expresses concern about their rent, when a business owner faces administrative obstacles, or when a young person seeks a safe place to learn and grow, these are not abstractions. They are calls to action. Together, we will build a Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension that is safe, affordable, and full of opportunity.” Key campaign commitments A balanced bike lane policy: improve the safety of existing lanes, complete missing residential connections, and freeze the creation of new lanes on commercial arteries until a full consultation has taken place, in order to protect families, seniors, and local businesses.
This campaign builds on Jacques's already established recognition as a respected cultural leader. Recently, she was invited to sign the City of Montreal's Livre d'or. This moment highlighted her role as a cultural ambassador and the impact of her award-winning documentary, Africa, Cradle of Humanity and Modern Civilizations. This film, which promotes reconciliation between peoples based on mutual respect, continues to strengthen dialogue between Montrealers and communities of African and Haitian descent. Futur Montréal's momentum continues to grow as the party showcases dynamic local leaders who reflect the city's diversity and energy. "This is what renewal means," added Jean-François Kacou. "Bénita's leadership will raise citizens' expectations of City Hall."

About Bénita Jacques
Bénita Jacques is a filmmaker, actress, and producer. She founded a production company dedicated to elevating diverse voices and bringing people together through art, education, and community engagement. In Montreal, she prioritizes a grassroots approach and concrete solutions.
About Futur Montréal
Futur Montréal is a citywide movement that delivers practical solutions and inclusive growth. We advocate for safe neighborhoods, reliable public transit, affordable housing, and a healthy environment for families and small businesses.
Media contact:
? 1-800-868-6118 ✉️ info@futurmontreal.com, ? www.futurmontreal.com

Joel DeBellefeuille