Gatineau, June 30, 2014 –Commissioner of Official Languages Graham Fraser today released a guide to help event organizers plan inclusive and bilingual celebrations.
“Canadians love any kind of celebration—from seasonal festivals to historical celebrations. These events are opportunities to meet our neighbours and learn more about our history,” said Commissioner Fraser. “By bringing together members of both of Canada’s official language communities and telling them the story of our past in a way that everyone can appreciate, we are helping to build bridges between the communities of our great country.”
“Canada’s 150th anniversary, which we will celebrate in 2017, is fast approaching, and regional and national activities will be taking place all across the country,” said Fraser. “But every event—historical, athletic, cultural or artistic, national or international, large or small—can showcase our two official languages. Celebrating Canada: A guide to a successful bilingual event presents good practices for planning an event that makes both English- and French-speaking Canadians feel welcome and represented.” The guide is intended for government institutions and community groups, as well as private-sector organizations.
For larger-scale events, the Commissioner’s 2011 document, called Organizing a Major Sporting Event in Canada: A Practical Guide to Promoting Official Languages, offers practical advice for organizers.
Nelson Kalil
Manager, Strategic Communications and Media Relations
Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages
Telephone: 613-995-0374
Cellular: 613-324-0999
Toll-free: 1-877-996-6368
E-mail nelson.kalil@clo-ocol.gc.ca
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