Words Matter, In English And French

Unity in diversity: isn't this what the Canadian dream is about? This reason is why many French Canadians felt sad and frustrated at the minuscule French content during the 2010 Opening Ceremony. Many French singers were rejected from the opening ceremony because of their language. In fact, many English speaking Canadians found the absence of the French language noticeable as well. Bilingualism does not mean all Canadians should speak both languages. It is a countries unique approach to diversity. No language should try and out match the other. This will only lead to conflict. This, Andre believes, is what occurred during the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games. The English language had a much greater presence than French. Many Canadians wondered: "why spoil this moment of pride with out old quarrels?" Why? Because it is difficult for the country's 7 million francophone's to feel proud while their language is being excluded. If the French Canadians do not protest now, their language will be excluded even more in the next major event in Canada.

Canada's bilingualism was put to the test during the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Olympics. The minuscule amount of French language was clearly noticed and found disturbing by both French, and English Canadians. I believe the French expressing worry is appropriate. They are trying to protect their language and culture in a "bilingual" country. It is unfair for the government to censor the French language from the Olympic games. As Canadian citizens, the French population has the right to be treated fairly. The exclusion of their language in the 2010 Winter Games is not "fair". Also, I agree with Andre when he says "No language should try and outmatch the other" because this Opening Ceremony is a prime example of just that. The Government believed English was superior to French, thus greatly reducing the amount of French spoken in the Opening Ceremony. The French must protest now before the next major event held in Canada. The more they stay in silence about their language, the more it will be shrugged off and forgotten.

http://www.thestar.com/opinion/article/767109--words-matter-in-english-and-french