“Promoting Linguistic Equality: Minister’s Commitment to French Language Services”

Yukon Celebrates Francophone Culture on Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day

A Vibrant Francophone Community

The Minister responsible for the French Language Services Directorate, John Streicker, has issued a statement on the occasion of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, highlighting the celebration of Francophone culture in the Yukon. This special day brings together Canadians from all corners of the country to honor and rejoice in the rich traditions of the Francophonie.

The Yukon boasts a vibrant and growing Francophone community, with 14 percent of its population fluent in both French and English. The territory is home to three French-language schools, which play a pivotal role in educating future generations of bilingual leaders. Remarkably, the Yukon ranks as the third-most bilingual province or territory in Canada, trailing only Quebec and New Brunswick.

Government Commitment to Francophone Community

The government of the Yukon is committed to supporting the vitality of its Francophone community. Minister Streicker’s statement affirms this commitment and recognizes Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day as one of the many opportunities for Yukoners to come together and enjoy Francophone music and culture throughout the year.

The celebration of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day is organized by the Association franco-yukonnaise (l’AFY) at the S.S. Klondike National Historic Site. This event promises to be an exciting occasion, featuring talented artists from across the country, entertaining the attendees and highlighting the diversity and richness of the Francophone culture.

Promoting Linguistic Equality

The Yukon’s dedication to promoting linguistic equality is commendable. By actively supporting the Francophone community and recognizing the importance of bilingualism, the government exemplifies the values of inclusivity and diversity. The presence of French-language schools and the commitment to celebrating Francophone culture demonstrate a commitment to the preservation and growth of the French language in the Yukon.

Advice for Preserving Francophone Heritage

As the Yukon continues to celebrate the vibrant Francophone culture on Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, it is important to remember that preserving heritage languages requires ongoing efforts. Here are some recommendations to ensure the preservation and promotion of the French language in the Yukon:

1. Government Support: The government should continue its support for French-language services, education, and cultural activities. Allocating resources to these initiatives will foster the growth and prosperity of the Francophone community.
2. Community Engagement: Organizations like l’AFY play a crucial role in organizing events and programs that showcase the richness of Francophone culture. Encouraging community participation and engaging with Francophone organizations will strengthen the community and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences.
3. Bilingualism in Education: Further investment in French-language education will equip future generations with valuable language skills and cultural knowledge. The establishment of more French-language schools and the expansion of French-language programs will enhance linguistic diversity in the Yukon.
4. Celebrating Diversity: Supporting and promoting diverse cultural activities and celebrations, such as Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, fosters a sense of belonging and respect for all linguistic communities within the Yukon. Encouraging cross-cultural exchange and collaboration will enrich the fabric of the territory.

Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing linguistic diversity and celebrating the contributions of Francophone communities. By nurturing the Francophonie in the Yukon, the territory strengthens its cultural fabric and contributes to a more inclusive Canada.

Bonne Saint-Jean-Baptiste!

For media inquiries, please contact:

Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca