Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day

Saint-Jean-Baptiste is a day on which French Canadians proudly celebrate their identity and their heritage. Over the years it has also become an important celebration for all Quebecers, and an opportunity to reaffirm the values of solidarity, sense of community and compassion that bring us together across Canada.

In this Year of La Francophonie in Canada, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day is also a time to reflect on our nation's Francophone experience.

The Canadian Francophonie is unique in the world. To begin with, it encompasses a diverse Francophone communities from one coast of our vast country to the other, each proud of its specific heritage but all united by common values and a common vision. Our Francophonie is nurtured, further, by the contribution of tens of thousands of people who are continuously enriching it and opening it to the wider world.

Aline joins me in wishing everyone a very happy Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.