June 21, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario
The following is the text of a message by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien on
the occasion of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day:
"Today as we mark Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, I invite all Canadians to
celebrate the richness of our French heritage and culture, which are part of
the very foundation of Canada’s identity and diversity.
Canada’s Francophonie is unique, and its influence is expanding more
than ever. Our athletes, our artists and our heroes are recognized the world
over. From one end of our vast country to the other, the many faces of
Canadian Francophonie bear proud witness to their unique heritage while
benefiting from a collective strength deriving from a common language and
set of values.
In honour of this diversity, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day has also become the
holiday of all Quebecers. It highlights their invaluable and unflagging
contribution to our development as a society.
Aline joins me in offering all our fellow citizens our very best wishes
for Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day."
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PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555
