With time, many transgender people would consult Ms. Godbout to undertake their
Hormone Replacement Therapy, knowing that they were in security with her. Around the
same time, Marie-Marcelle started to do active listening in the trans community, which
she has done for years.
In 1980, while Christine Rollins stayed at the General Hospital of Toronto after another
surgery, Ms. Godbout visited her. She was appalled to witness the attitude the nurse
had towards her friend. Ms. Rollins was misgendered purposely, and the interactions of
the nurse were unpleasant and grim. This total lack of respect towards her friend’s
identity and dignity set off the need for Marie-Marcelle Godbout to create the
organization of ATQ (Aide aux trans du Québec).
The first thing she did when beginning her project was to put up a 24/7 helpline from her
house, which is still operational. She has also demystified the trans-identity in Quebec
by speaking with multiple media and giving hundreds of workshops in universities,
cégeps, hospitals, and correctional facilities.
Since 1980, the ATQ fights for trans people’s rights to live life to the fullest in society
and the right to grow in respect and dignity. The organization is also a center for active
listening, psychosocial interventions and resources redistribution.