Council of the Network of Official Languages Champions
Official Languages Day

In 2009, the former Clerk of the Privy Council, Wayne G. Wouters, declared the second Thursday in September “Linguistic Duality Day” across the Public Service of Canada. In 2022, it was renamed “Official Languages Day” by the Clerk of the Privy Council, Janice Charette.

French and English are more than just means of communication: they strengthen the ties that bind our communities, promote mutual understanding, and symbolize our commitment to diversity. These 2 languages have coexisted and shaped Canada’s history and culture since the adoption of the Official Languages Act in 1969. They are an integral part of Canadian identity, contributing to the country’s social and economic wealth.

Official Languages Day is now celebrated by Canadians from coast, to coast, to coast. It’s the opportunity to highlight our linguistic heritage as well as the initiatives, progress and people who contribute to the vitality of English and French.

This year, Official Languages Day is celebrated on September 10, 2026.