Celebrate Official Languages Day on September 11

September 9, 2025 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 1:00

This year, Official Languages Day (OLDay) takes place on September 11 and provides us with the opportunity to celebrate Canada’s rich bilingual heritage. The Defence Team is proud to celebrate our accomplishments in strengthening the bilingualism culture and promoting the use of official languages within our organization.

The power of using both official languages in the workplace lies in their ability to unite and influence. Our two official languages are much more than just a means of communication: they reflect our identity and our cultural heritage.

Defence Team members are encouraged to take ownership of their official language development and capabilities through the many learning resources available (see related links below). It’s an opportunity for Defence Team members to benefit from the countless advantages of bilingualism throughout their career. Bilingualism enriches us both personally and professionally.

Mark your calendars and celebrate this year’s OLDay by:

• attending a virtual event themed "Uniting Around Canadian Books” on September 11 from 1:30 to 3:00 pm (EDT);
• using the MS Teams background and email signature; and
• using the hashtag #OLDay on social media.

Happy #OLDay!

Related links

• Official Languages Act
• Director Official Languages
• Council of the Network of Official Languages Champions
• Canada School of Public Service 
• Linguistic Duality Network
• Second Language Training for PS employees (only accessible on the DWAN)
• Language Training Hub (GCwiki) 
• Language Maintenance Tools (CSPS)