French Second Language Programs at the Heart of Canadian Bilingualism, LanguageCommissioner Says
OTTAWA, October 10, 2024 — Canadian Parents for French (CPF) applauds the Commissioner of Official Languages’ latest report on the status of Canada’s official language minority communities, which underscores“the essential role played by those who defend, promote, teach and study French as a second language from coast to coast to coast.”
“In his report, Commissioner Théberge affirms the foundational idea that inspired the creation of CanadianParents for French in the late 1970s and continues to drive our mission today. Canada is home to many allies of the French language, and supporting English speakers’ path to bilingualism ultimately benefits all Canadians,”CPF National President Kate Ashley said.
“As governments begin to consider how to better support the concept of the ‘education continuum,’ we agree with the Commissioner that consultations must occur with a ‘wider range of stakeholders to give the opportunityto replicate successful practices.’ As allies of the Canadian Francophonie living in a shared linguistic ecosystem, we must work collaboratively to ensure that all Canadians can learn, engage, and thrive in both official languages.”
However, the Commissioner also rightly identifies significant obstacles faced by individuals and organizations inthe French Second Language (FSL) sector.
“We agree with the Commissioner that French Immersion and FSL are at the heart of Canadian bilingualism,” said Nicole Thibault, CPF’s Network CEO. “We are also encouraged that the Commissioner acknowledges the key challenges allies encounter in accessing second language instruction and opportunities to develop their skills, particularly the shortage of qualified staff to teach these vital programs.”
As discussions about the bilingual workforce and the economic development of official language minority communities gain momentum, CPF supports the Commissioner’s push for more opportunities for adults to enhance their skills in their second official language. “This is vital for acknowledging the Francophonie as an essential part of Canada’s cultural and economic fabric,” Thibault added.
Canadian Parents for French is committed to playing an active role in fostering bilingualism in Canada and looks forward to collaborating with decision-makers across political, institutional, and social spheres, urging them to respond to the Commissioner’s call for increased resources to improve access to Second Language and Immersion programs, spanning from early childhood through adulthood.
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Canadian Parents for French is a nationwide, research-informed, volunteer organization that promotes and creates opportunities to learn and use French for all those who call Canada home.
For more information:
Ahdithya Visweswaran
Director, Advocacy & Public Policy
613.235.1482 ext. 222
avisweswaran@cpf.ca
Download full press release here.