Franglo

This week I am conflicted after the events last weekend. I always placed my hope for tolerance in Quebec on the next generation, but last weekend a family member complained that a waiter did not speak to them in French when we were dining out.

To put the situation in context, it was not the waiter’s fault. I addressed him in English for the table, plus we live on the West Island, where most of the Anglos live. He assumed the table spoke English, and my family member replied in French. From that moment forward, the waiter spoke with them in French. The kid was fully bilingual and lovely. On the way home, they complimented how easily the waiter moved between both languages serving all the tables around us.

I am a peri-menopausal woman who is more sensitive to most situations. I spent a lot of time and money trying to learn French when I first arrived in Quebec, and I can follow along in most conversations, but I tend to respond in English. I will be the first to admit that it’s a confidence level in my speaking ability.

My reality; half my home life is French with the kids and English with my husband, and I work entirely in English with a national team.

As an English person in Quebec, you always are sensitive to being on the outside and not welcomed with open arms into society. Bill 96 aimed at further protecting the language and making it more difficult for Anglos or new immigrants to the province.

I have thoughts of the language issue as political pondering, similar to American-style politics. Target a specific population and tell them another group will take their jobs or ruin their way of life. A way to get re-elected is through fear-mongering.

I had hoped the next generation would be more tolerant and accepting. We can all live in harmony together, embracing cultural diversity, but after this meal, I am worried that the political climate is having a negative impact.

When I spoke with my other half the next day, I said I was upset at dinner and felt hated in my house. Yes, the remark was for the waiter, but the context is generally for the English language.

He wrote it off as kids being kids, playing a role, but I am not so sure. As parents, we have to raise tolerant children. As a step-parent, I only have a little input when voicing my concerns.

My hope for the future is to have fully bilingual children who speak both official languages and create a welcoming environment for those wanting to make Canada home.

I wish for a Quebec that would show newcomers all the many reasons why this province is so unique, so they will take it upon themselves to learn the language to be full members of society instead of mandating they need to learn a language within six months of arrival.

There are so many amazing things about the culture, and I wish we would use carrots instead of sticks.