The arena hosted some of the most important events in modern Quebec political history. It was the site of the Parti Québécois election victory celebrations on November 15, 1976 and on April 13, 1981. Additionally, it was the site of two of the most important moments of the 1980 referendum. On May 14, 1980 Pierre Trudeau delivered his "first among equals" speech that was his major contribution to the campaign battle, and René Lévesque delivered his passionate concession speech on May 20, 1980.