LETTER

LETTRE

Reply to editorial « Vive la francophonie ! » by Didier PérièsÙ

 

The title of Didier PérièsÙ editorial « Vive la francophonie ! » would let one believe that it was to be an exultation of the joys of being a francophone in this special time when Francophone Quebecers not only have full rein to deal with their own concerns about language, but also seem to have drawn the positive attention of the Federal Government as well. Instead, M. Périès'Ù missive was used to bemoan “the cries of rage from Anglo-Quebecers” about Bills 96 and C-13, characterising them as exaggerated and misplaced.
    Leaving aside any arguments about the merits of the new restrictions on English, I must simply express my surprize at M. PérièsÙ lack of appreciation for what Bill C-13Ùs impact could be on CanadaÙs Francophone minority. I would think that given the title, M. PérièsÙ editorial would be praising the effort, or at least saying “"ItÙs about time!”"
    Maybe though, I should be able to understand how difficult it must be to praise a country about progressive legislation that favours the minority, while simultaneously praising a nation for its own regressive, culturist policies.
    Every Anglophone I know has likely joined M. Périès in a loud cheer of « Vive la francophonie ! » in this month, but the irony of his editorial would not be lost on any Anglophone I know – and equally on most Francophones I know as well.
     (I could easily translate this reply to French, but for once in my life, I just can'Ùt find it in me to do so.)
Rick Henderson
Aylmer