AboutJo-Ann Expertise I can answer most questions on French-Canadian culture, geography, history, language, style, Quebec-Canada relations, aboriginal issues.
Experience Born and raised bi-lingual and bi-cultural in Quebec. Have also lived in Franco-Ontarian communities.
Several years experience in the tourism industry before becoming a teacher.
Education Credentials: B.A. in French language & literature (McGill University, Montreal,1992), Dip. Ed. (McGill, 1995), Currently working on M.A.degree in History
Awards and Honors:Jean Launay Translation Award (McGill University, 1992)
Expert: Jo-Ann Date: 5/6/2008 Subject: French Canadian Government
Question Hello, I am in this class and i cant for the life of my figure out what my proffesor is talking about when he is asking about 10 major fears that French Canadians have about their position and authority in the Canadian Governmental system. I have notes all the way through the semester and his slides... i think he might have skipped this section and then gave out a assignment on it. HELP!
Answer Hi, Benjamin,
First off, I would suggest you get in touch with your professor with your concerns, because what I consider major fears, and what he considers major fears can be very subjective, and may not be the same at all.
Second, in this instance, I can't speak for all French-Canadians. Certain issues, such as linguistic and cultural protections, are of concern to all French-Canadians, others issues, while of considerable importance to Quebecers, may be more or less important to French-Canadians elsewhere in the country.
It is important to note that Canada is a confederation. That means that the provinces enjoy a considerable share of autonomy within a federal system. French-Canadians in general, and Quebecers in particular, want to be assured that the rights and priviledges they have at the provincial level will not be overridden at the federal leve.
In my opinion, it all boils down to the fact that French-Canadians are a minority population in Canada, and in the Americas. Most of the fears, worries and concerns relate to French-Canada's minority status. That is why, I think, Quebecers have voted for the Bloc Quebecois to represent our interests in Ottawa. It's often made out to be a question of separatism or regional sovereignty, but more than that, it's a sense that only a party that is focused on Quebec, will stand up for Quebec's rights.
The greatest fear, in my opinion and experience, is the loss of our cultural identity. With only approximately six million native Francophones in the Americas, there is a very real risk that our culture will be assimilated into the greater Anglophone or Hispanic cultures. It is that fear that is at the root of the Quebec separatist movement.
Another fear, which is closely connected to the first, is the loss of our language. French-Canada has obtained some linguistic protections, notably in the 1960s when both French and English were recognized as equal official languages. In the 1970s, Quebec instituted further protections with Bill 22 and later Bill 101, which gave the French language a preferred status in Quebec.
Quebecers, especially French-speakers, are concerned about policies that will ultimately affect Quebec being made by people with no connection to Quebec. Quebecers have long advocated a de-centralized government. A favorite slogan has been "Maîtres chez nous" which translates loosely as "masters in our own house."
Education and access to French-language government services is another great concern. In theory, a French-Canadian should be able to receive government services, medical care, educational services, etc. in French anywhere in Canada. In practice, it is not always the case. French-Canadians should not be forced to relinquish their language and culture in order to receive services.
Equitable distribution of tax revenues is another sticky point. Quebecers want to know that they will somehow benefit from the taxes that they are paying to the Federal Government.
Quebecers, more and more, are becoming very concerned about protecting our natural resources. Former governments have negotiated away important sources of Quebec revenue. Quebecers feel that they must assume greater control of our resources.
Closely connected to the protection of our natural resources is the protection of Quebec's environment. Again it's a case of not wanting unconcerned federal decision-makers imposing policies that will directly affect Quebec's environment.
It's not ten, but I hope this helps you somewhat.
Bonne chance,
Jo-Ann
