Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women Tanya Fir and Minister of Technology and Innovation and Francophone Community Liaison Nate Glubish issued the following statement on Alberta Francophonie Month: 

“This month, we recognize the vital contributions of French-speaking Albertans to our communities, culture and economy. Raising the Franco-Albertan flag is a proud tribute to our shared heritage and bright future.

“French is the second-most spoken language in Alberta, with over 260,000 speakers who either speak it as their mother tongue or use it at home. Their role in enriching our culture, fostering economic development and strengthening diversity, is invaluable.

“Alberta’s government remains committed to enhancing French-language services to better serve French-speaking Albertans. Over the past year, we have made meaningful progress in justice, health, child care, and we will continue working to expand access and opportunities.

“We also recognize the invaluable efforts of our partners—community leaders, educators, non-profits and businesses—who drive the continued growth and vitality of Alberta’s Francophonie.

“Their dedication strengthens our province.

“To everyone who nurtures and preserves our francophone heritage, thank you.

“This month, I invite all Albertans to take part in the celebrations, explore the richness of our shared history and support the continued vibrancy of the Francophonie in Alberta.”

Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

“One of the greatest gifts my parents ever gave me was sending me to a French immersion program when I was younger. Being immersed in French from an early age was transformative. It expanded my worldview, gave me access to diverse cultural experiences, and instilled in me a lifelong love for languages.

“Now, as a parent, I am thrilled to pass on this legacy to my son. Enrolling him in a French immersion kindergarten program was a decision rooted in the desire to give him the same opportunities I had. Watching him learn and speak French, I am filled with pride and optimism for his future. We practice French at home, making language learning a family affair.

“Francophonie Month is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the contributions of the francophone community in Alberta. It is a time to reflect on the importance of linguistic diversity and to honour the resilience and passion of those who keep the French language alive.

“Alberta’s francophones have made, and continue to make, invaluable contributions to our province. Let us celebrate their legacy and work towards a future that embraces and celebrates bilingualism.”

Nate Glubish, Minister of Technology and Innovation and Francophone Community Liaison