8th Annual Franco-Ontarian Day Statement

Marie-France Lalonde, Minister of Francophone Affairs, released the following statement today:

“As a Franco-Ontarian and, for the first time, as Minister of Francophone Affairs, I am especially pleased and proud to celebrate the eighth annual Franco-Ontarian Day. 

Francophones are an integral part of our province’s history and they epitomize the richness and vitality of our society. As we commemorate the 150th anniversary of Ontario and Canada, this year’s Franco-Ontarian Day has taken on a special significance for all francophones across the province. 

Our government continues to reinforce its commitment to the preservation and advancement of the francophone community in Ontario. This has been demonstrated through the province’s membership in the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, the creation of Ontario’s first Ministry of Francophone Affairs and the province’s proposal to establish a French-language university governed by, and for, francophones. 

Ontario is vibrant, diverse and open to the world, thanks in no small part to its francophone community, and I invite people across the province to take this day to celebrate our francophone culture and heritage.”