There’s a French expression that translates to “The more things change, the more they stay the same.” And with talk of a third referendum on sovereignty, the expression “plus ca change” seems apropos. Except for one difference: Quebec anglophones have never felt so cast aside and not included in a provincial election.
It began with a decision by the Liberals to not take part in an English debate after the CAQ and PQ said no. Then came the confirmation that voting information cards would only be printed and mailed out “en francais.” That was followed by a revelation that poll workers were being instructed to “parler francais” to everyone, unless a voter proved or said they have a historic right to speak English or are Indigenous.
Suffice it to say the run-up to October 5th was not only disappointing but irritating to the anglophone community. Especially when anglophones and their institutions are already weary of being the target of perceived repeated attacks throughout the last eight years of CAQ rule.
When newly named CAQ leader Christine Frechette said she wanted to have a “different tone” in discussions with anglophones, there was a ray of hope. But that ray quickly vanished when she refused to debate “en anglais” and vowed to continue to strengthen the French language with Bill 96.
And then she said she would appeal an injunction forcing Elections Quebec to print up and mail out voter cards in English – albeit too late for most people to get them. Even the PQ’s Paul St. Pierre Plamondon said he wouldn’t bother with an appeal. All of which makes Frechette’s appeal even less appealing to anglophones, and more petty. So much for “different tone.” Anglophones interpret this move as being tone-deaf.
Many anglophone Quebecers love the French language. Speaking French enriches our lives. Speaking “franglais” is fun and functional. But when our provincial government says it no longer has a duty or just can’t be bothered to speak to 1.6 million people about the issues at stake in a language they can fully understand, Anglos see red – not blue and white pride.
Yes, French is the official language of Quebec. But the past few weeks made people want to make a point of speaking English at the polls. A Châteauguay woman who runs a community Facebook group was telling her three thousand followers to speak English when they voted, and to not be intimidated. A “Historic Quebec Anglo” T-shirt started by CJAD radio host Aaron Rand in 2019 made a comeback. Bowser and Blue are likely writing new Anglo resistance songs as we speak.
An intolerant and unjust society breeds intolerance. And it can also breed insolence from those it neglects and disrespects. Anglophones, it seems, have had enough of being told their voices don’t matter and were ready to make a point of it by voting loudly and proudly – “en anglais, merci beaucoup.”
The Quebec “angryphone” is back and tired of playing nice.
Caroline Van Vlaardingen
CTV Montreal News Anchor