Tracing the growth of an idea or social movement offers a glimpse into the way we think about health and its disorders. In Canadian society, social acceptance is emerging as a fundamental pillar of harmonious coexistence. This concept transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, offering a common ground where individuals can feel recognized, valued, and respected. At the heart of social acceptance lies empathy. Roughly speaking, it’s putting ourselves in other people’s shoes, understanding their experiences and perspectives, even when they differ from our own. It is called into question time and again, as in Quebec with the environmental issues surrounding the construction of a battery factory or the siting of wind turbines, or as in Vancouver with drug users and the homeless. Education plays a crucial role in promoting social acceptance. For example, by integrating programs focusing on intercultural awareness and the fight against discrimination, schools can train young people to become aware and respectful citizens of the world. In the field of mental health, social acceptance is more than just a concept; it can become a catalyst for healing and transformation. When we speak of social acceptance in psychiatry, we are referring to the recognition and respect of individuals living with mental disorders, and the promotion of an environment where they are fully integrated and supported. For decades, this has been the editorial line of our journal Santé Mentale au Québec. One of the cornerstones of social acceptance in mental health is the fight against stigma. All too often, people with mental health problems are confronted with prejudice and discrimination that can hinder their recovery and well-being. Social acceptance aims to break down these barriers by promoting understanding, empathy and support for those struggling with mental health problems. Social acceptance in mental health is not limited to the individuals themselves, but also extends to their families, friends, neighbors, shopkeepers, schoolchildren, and communities. By fostering strong social support and encouraging inclusion, we can create a strong support network that helps people living with mental disorders to overcome challenges and thrive. However, for this social support to become a reality, we must avoid making mistakes such as locating a care or residential facility in one place, without considering the immediate environment, the neighborhood. The consequences of such mistakes are such that stigmatization and antipathy develop, despite all the good will of those involved in mental health or addiction. To illustrate this dilemma, I have chosen a concrete case in Montreal. I’ve been living in the South-West district for 35 years, more specifically in Saint-Henri and Little Burgundy. It’s an area that has improved in an exemplary way for a city like Montreal. In the past, the area didn’t enjoy a good reputation. There were legends of organized crime revolving around the Dubois brothers’ clan, and frequent misdemeanors and crimes to the extent that when I was still a student, it enriched the mockery of my young colleagues. I continued to live there, even though I changed addresses several times. On the other hand, the area has developed wonderful community resources, and exemplary day-care centers have sprung up alongside training, francization, and literacy centers. Jazz has made its mark on murals and cultural venues. Parks have become well maintained and friendly, and sports are possible at any time in marvellous spaces. The community has also worked hard to make Saint-Henri and Little Burgundy a sought-after tourist, cultural, inclusive, multi-ethnic and dynamic commercial destination, while preserving social housing, some of which is still being renovated. The Lachine Canal that borders the neighborhood is a vector of well-being and peace for strollers and …