To be downtrodden or not to be downtrodden? That is the question for the demoralized English of Quebec.
Should we English writers, speakers, poets, as a collective of diverse voices demand equality in this land that was built by peoples of many languages and cultures?
Should we beat loud our breasts, and make a plea to the linguistic power-mongers in this great province for the respect that is articulated in the law?
Should we demand that the National Assembly appoint an independent advocate for the English language?
I say YES!
The preamble of Quebec's Charter of the French Language shows clearly the contradiction that exists in this province. On the one hand, the French language is being given the post position. But other languages are—in theory—being allowed to race freely.
"Whereas the National Assembly of Québec recognizes that Quebecers wish to see the quality and influence of the French language assured, and is resolved therefore to make of French the language of Government and the Law, as well as the normal and everyday language of work, instruction, communication, commerce and business;
Whereas the National Assembly intends to pursue this objective in a spirit of fairness and open-mindedness, respectful of the institutions of the English-speaking community of Québec, and respectful of the ethnic minorities, whose valuable contribution to the development of Québec it readily acknowledges;"
Of course, French is not exactly the language of the law. The law is also written in English, not particularly well, but it is there.
However, "fairness and open mindedness" does not mean that the language can be butchered with impunity. The National Assembly, according to the Charter's preamble, is to "make of French the language of Government," etc.
"Of French?" What is an English speaker to make of "of French?"
To "make French the language of Government" is eminently more of correct to my ear.
Lest it be said that respect begins at home. If the Charter of the French Language and its application makes a mockery of the English language, then it must be amended to protect and preserve the dignity of English and all other languages that exist in this multicultural province.
We are all persons equal under the law, free to speak, free to associate, free even to wear niqabs if we choose. Are we Englishmen and women to be sent down the St. Lawrence in birch bark canoes, merely because we wish to be given respect for our birthright?
It is time, actually long overdue, that the English of Quebec be afforded the respect that is spoken of in the law. A good first measure is for the Government of Quebec to step up to the plate. A simple email is the beginning. The Premier can be reached via
https://www.premier.gouv.qc.ca/premier-ministre/nous-joindre/courriel-formulaire.asp
Jack Locke is poet-in-chief of the Foundation for Public Poetry, editor of Leonard Cohen You're Our Man, and a freelance journalist. His blog is at http://jjlocke.wordpress.com.
