La Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique

La Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique a n n u A l R e p o r t La Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique

La Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique

La Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique2011 – 2012 The Fédération des IN THIS REPORT

francophones de la MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT...... 1

Colombie-Britannique MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR...... 2 is dedicated to the POLICY...... 3 development of an IMMIGRATION...... 6 inclusive Francophonie. Its main activities aim to COMMUNICATION...... 13 enlarge the Francophone AGREEMENT SECRETARIAT...... 25

presence and strengthen SUPPORT...... 28 the Francophone and COOPERATION...... 29 Francophile civil society HEALTH...... 32 in British Columbia. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...... 33

ADMINISTRATION...... 34

This annual report covers the primary activities of the Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique (FFCB), spanning the period of April 1, 2011 to March 31, 2012. The FFCB is a provincial organization. Message FROM THE PrEsident

Once again, the Fédération des francophones de la Colombie- several of our member organizations. Despite the presence of a Britannique [Federation of Francophones of British Columbia] linguistic clause in the federal-provincial agreement, in which the has continued to serve its community by supporting its develop- Province of British Columbia recognizes its obligation to offer ment through major annual meetings, and by representing it employment services in French, we still cannot get our point of before government decision-makers. I would like to give a brief view across. We feel our Francophone organizations are best report on the work that has been carried out over the last year, placed to offer these services. Over the last two years, we have while highlighting the challenges lying ahead of us. made representations to provincial and federal officials, but to no At the last Rendez-vous des présidents et des présidentes avail. However, we continue to follow this matter very closely. [Meeting of Presidents] in November 2011, the Fédération organized The employment services issue is a clear illustration of the an important forum about the 300,000 French speakers in challenges we face. We must ensure that all levels of govern- British Columbia. That meeting aimed at generating discussion ment understand the importance of ensuring an active offer of regarding the evolution and growth of our linguistic community. services in order to foster the growth of French-language minority Who would have thought, 30 years ago, that there would be so communities. The constitutional obligation to apply the Official many people with French as their mother tongue, language of Languages Act should not apply to federal government only. It is education, or language of choice! This number should continue of great importance that the provincial government understands to grow due to immigration and the ever increasing number of that, when it receives funding from the federal government, registrations in French immersion programs. To avoid marginaliza- it shares that responsibility. It must maintain the obligations tion, we must seize the opportunity to involve in our community associated with the Official Languages Act. Some provincial those youth who have spent so many years learning French. cabinet members may understand the importance of this In order to achieve that goal, the Fédération partnered with commitment, but too many remain indifferent. Canadian Parents for French – BC and Yukon Branch (CPF). This Thankfully some current political officials understand the year, both Boards of Directors got to know each other and better needs related to French as an official language. On March 13, understand the challenges that we will be facing. Specifically, we at the annual proclamation of “Francophonie day” in British established a partnership to create a video on the history of the Columbia, the Honourable Margaret MacDiarmid unveiled the Francophone presence in British Columbia. That video will be widely new site for French-language access to government services. distributed to schools so young people can learn about French At the time of the announcement, the Franco-Columbian flag being the first European language spoken in British Colombia. was already hoisted in front of the Legislative Assembly. The Fédération has continued its participation in the In September 2011, I had the pleasure of signing the community and cultural policy of the Conseil scolaire Cooperation Agreement with the Minister of Canadian Francophone de la C.-B. (CSF) [BC Francophone School Board]. Heritage, the Honourable James Moore, on behalf of the I have written to Senator Maria Chaput to remind her Francophone community of British Columbia. That document of our unequivocal support for Francophone schools, noting entrenched the federal government’s commitment to promote the importance of those institutions in the vitality of our and protect French as an official language. communities. I mentioned how essential it is to support French I had the great pleasure of being elected to the Fédération immersion programs. We will continue our action in this regard, des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada (FCFA) as the Francophone community is not only represented at the [Canadian Federation of Francophone and Acadian communities] CSF, but also in school boards throughout the province. Board of Directors, where I will continue, with the Fédération‘s We made many political representations this year. In Executive Director, to represent British Columbia. November, we were invited to present a submission to the In closing, I would like to thank the entire Fédération team Standing Committee on Official Languages at the House of for another year of magnificent work. I would also like to thank Commons in Ottawa. It aimed at reiterating the key importance the members of the Board of Directors for their wisdom during of the federal government’s financial support for our community our deliberations. through the Roadmap for Canada’s Linguistic Duality 2008-2013. We seized the opportunity to reinforce the Francophone community’s desire to be in the negotiations related to the transfer of jurisdiction from the Federal Government to its provincial counterpart. Here, I would like to mention an issue of great concern to us: Dr Réal Roy the loss of employment services and its devastating effects on President

1 Message FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

This past year was a strange combination of euphoria, or Where can we do it? When and how can we do it? perhaps serenity, and discouragement. Representing an We answer these questions together, when RésoSanté evolving community and building a new identity, is somewhat expands its list of health professionals who speak French, when like being stuck on a merry-go-round that keeps on playing Canadian Parents for French – BC and Yukon Branch organizes its music and does not stop when you want off! its public speaking competition, when our schools put down The discouragement that I refer to is when our employment roots in their community, when our youth from the Franco- service centres are being shut down and when the negotiated phone School Board raise funds for the homeless, and when arrangements to replace them are so stifling that our institu- our new immigrants start their own businesses. tions can only downsize and stop providing the services required The euphoria is also for when our children become fully by our community. It is clear this year that the long months of involved, and when the Board of Directors of the Conseil jeunesse negotiations with the provincial government have led nowhere. brings together francophone youth, confident and proud of their Francophones have become the recipients of specialized services, bilingualism, at ease with their complex interwoven identities, and the government of British Columbia refuses to guarantee who have also taken on the responsibility of helping their or even offer its Francophones the services they should have in Francophone community grow and develop. a country that claims to be proud of its two official languages. I would invite you to read our Annual Report. It covers The serenity that I refer to is for the day when the Franco- our main activities and the difficult situation we have to face Columbian flag flies proudly in front of the Legislative together. I do not believe we can claim this past year met all our Assembly in Victoria, a powerful symbol of the recognition expectations. However, together, we learned to better analyze of our community. This flag tells us that we are part of British the challenges of our environment and identify the winning Columbia and that our contribution is noticed and respected. battles. Our past is rich and we can be proud of it. We want to make the Francophone creativity and expertise that We are living in a period of transition: the end of the we have developed together available to the entire population. Federal Roadmap. We were consulted and we will continue to The serenity is also for the day when a cultural event be consulted by the federal government in order to map out somewhere in our community shows us that we are not just a our road for the future. single Francophone culture, but many Francophone cultures; There will be pitfalls to be avoided; there may be clouds a harmony of cultures sharing the same language, which over our heads, but remember that the Fédération is your tool, together constitutes one of our greatest wealth. your platform for cooperation. The work that I am committed The euphoria that I refer to is for when renewed support to carry on is easy to define: we are first and foremost an from Citizenship and Immigration Canada allows us to come instrument of change to help the community grow, build together around a table with the major stakeholders in our and create. community, to work together and develop projects that I would like to thank the Fédération’s Board of Directors for welcome and support Francophone immigrants, who want the passionate discussions around the meetings, without which to enrol their children in our schools, and become members I would be less confident. of our associations and their Boards of Directors. These same I would also like to thank the Fédération’s staff, on which associations, organizations and institutions continue to I can rely, and on whose dedication you can count on. demonstrate a deep commitment that goes well beyond the duties of an employee or a volunteer. Thank you. The euphoria is again for when we come together, as we did last November, to better understand how to strengthen the ties between us and every person who chooses to speak French. Those Francophiles who absolutely want to benefit from the Francophone presence that we create together. There are Christine Sotteau 300,000 of us who want to live our lives, at least in part, Executive Director in French.

2 Our community needs to adapt to a new environment and its challenges In May 2011, Canadians elected a majority conservative government and chose the New Democratic Party (NDP) as the official opposition. In this new political environment, the Fédération strengthened its representation to the government, particularly to the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, and other politicians, such as the newly elected opposition critics. This awareness campaign also led the Fédération to organize a meeting between the directors of Vancouver’s Francophone associations and the Honourable Stéphane Dion during his visit to our city.

On the provincial scene, the Fédération continued to raise the awareness of government on the realities and challenges James Moore held a press conference at the of the Francophone community. Réal Roy, President of the Maison de la Francophonie [Francophonie Fédération, met with Parliamentary Secretary John Les on House] to sign the 2009–2014 Cooperation several occasions in Victoria and with the new Leader of the Agreement. Several Francophone representa- Opposition, Adrian Dix, a well known personality among the tives were present, including Réal Roy who community, as he was the former Executive Director of signed the official document on behalf of Canadian Parents for French-BC and Yukon Branch. the community.

The Fédération is invited to present its evaluation of the Roadmap for Canada’s Linguistic Duality to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Official Languages Last November 15, the President Findings and recommendations: n The federal government’s and the Executive Director of the n It is often difficult to measure transfers of funds to the Fédération appeared before the the impact the services Province must include language House of Commons Standing provided have on the lives clauses and mechanisms of Committee on Official Languages to of Francophones. accountability between both present its review on the Roadmap’s n The Programme d’appui aux levels of government, after impact on the programs and services communautés de langues consulting with the community. provided to the British Columbia officielles [Official language n Long-term partnerships are Francophones. communities support program] the keystone of community’s must be maintained, revised development. upward, and change to a multi year funding agreement.

3 Members of the House of Commons Standing Committee are interested in our newly established links with Francophiles Members of Parliament were very curious about the Fédération’s stand on establishing and reinforcing its collaboration with the Province’s Francophiles when it appeared before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Official Languages.

Committee member, Mr. John Weston, met with the Fédération to exchange additional information on the rapprochement policy between British Columbia’s 300,000 fluent French speakers.

The Fédération attended the graduation ceremony for students of Simon Fraser University’s Francophone Program.

The Governor General of Canada visits Maillardville Last winter, the Fédération was very happy to greet the Governor General of Canada, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston during his meeting with the Société francophone de Maillardville [Francophone Society of Maillardville]. The Governor General gave an eloquent speech on the wealth of Canadian diversity. Réal Roy, President of the Fédération, had the pleasure of speaking to the Governor General.

The Governor General of Canada and his wife (centre) are welcomed by students from École des Pionniers de Maillardville [Pioneers School of Maillardville] and by the Société francophone de Maillardville [Maillardville Francophone Society] during their visit on February 20, 2012.

4 The Fédération raises the awareness of our current challenges with elected representatives Issues concerning immigration and employment services have, once again this year, taken up the attention and resources of the Fédération. The President met with Mr. John Les, Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier, to resolve these issues. The Fédération has developed a respect- ful and strong relationship with Mr. Les who accompanied Mr. Roy to a key meeting with Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Social Development. Together, we conveyed the community’s point of view on the new employment services model developed by the provincial government. Mr. Les has met with the community on several occasions to discuss immigration with Ms. Christine Sotteau, Ms. Véronique Mercier, Mr. Réal Roy, Ms. Cécile Barbier, and Ms. Ariane Kitengie.

Mr. Les and Ms. Mac Diarmid attended the launch of the French Language Services Directory and unveiled this year’s cover. They shared that moment with Ms. Sotteau, Executive Director; Mr. Deron, Government Relations and Research Coordinator; and young Mattéo Perron, whose drawing was selected as the 2011–2012 cover page.

The Fédération works closely with the Francophone Affairs Program This year marks the development of significant links with the Francophone Affairs Program (FAP) in Victoria. The Fédération and the FAP have monthly phone conference to review pending policy agenda and how to collabora- tively advance on the identified priorities.

The Fédération and the Francophone Affairs Program have also implemented a selection process to determine which communications the provincial government must translate into French.

The Fédération is proud to participate in the proclamation of the Journée de la Francophonie organized by the Francophone Affairs Program. On that day, the British Colombia Francophonie flag flies in front of Victoria’s Legislative Assembly. Mr. Les gave the Fédération’s president a commemorative plaque.

5 IMMIGRATION Momentum continues to build for the immigration committees On July 14, 2011, the regional steering commit- A number of tee held its annual meeting with the leaders of accomplishments the working groups to promote Francophone for the immigration immigration in British Columbia. The meeting working groups provided updates on the activities undertaken in the area of Francophone immigration and Successful collaborations allowed the participants to share information between intervening on progress made by the province and in the associations community. The implementation committee has also continued its activities as a result Collaboration strengthens of the working groups that have been set up. our community: a few The group members met regularly to work on examples of encouraging initiatives to undertake through partnerships. partnerships

The steering committee had the honour of welcoming Mr. Les Linklater (sixth from the left), Assistant Deputy Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to British Columbia. Mr. Linklater visited the offices of the Agence francophone pour l’accueil des immigrants (AFAI) [Francophone Agency for Immigrants] and the Fédération. He met the Francophone immigration team and the leaders of the working groups.

A group meeting during the Fédération’s annual general meeting.

6 A number of accomplishments for the immigration working groups:

1 Open house For the first time, an open house for Francophone newcomers, called “Welcome to BC Francophonie” was held at Gabrielle Roy School in Surrey. Held on October 1, this activity, organized by the “Welcome - settlement” working group, was a fine example of cooperation. More than 30 Francophone and cultural associations (including the Congolese, Cameroonian, Haitian, Français du monde, the Malagasy and Burundi communities and associations) cooperated and contributed to the day’s success. The community was able to inform and welcome 150 Francophone newcomers. Given this success, it was decided that the event will be held every year, in October.

The cultural communities organized a gourmet buffet, song, dances and a fashion show featuring traditional costumes from various countries.

2 Business start-up workshops Organized by the “Economic integration” working group, the workshops allowed more than 20 Francophone newcomers to undergo two days of intensive training on how to start a business in British Columbia.

7 Promoting Francophone 3 immigration in the regions 5 The FORUM THEATRE The “Regionalization” working group, The “Social and cultural represented by the Société francophone integration” working group de Victoria [Victoria Francophone society], supported the Association took advantage of the “Welcome to BC des juristes d’expression Francophonie” event to promote the regions among newcomers. The group française de la Colombie-Britannique would like to repeat this initiative. They [Association of French-speaking legal also want to promote immigration professionals of British Columbia] in its outside Greater Vancouver during FORUM THEATRE project for Franco- the SWAP information sessions. phone immigrants. Through theatre, about 100 participants from Surrey, Burnaby, and Vancouver learned about human and language rights.

Recruiting and promoting BC to 4 Francophone newcomers The British Columbia Francophone Immigration Steering Committee (BCFISC), a partnership initiative between the federal government, the Province, and the Francophone community, organized several events to facilitate the recruitment and integration of Francophone immigrants in the province. It held information Representatives of Comox and the Okanagan Valley during a meeting. sessions to promote the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) among employers and academic institutions. It also organized work sessions with members of the Francophone community to raise committee represented British Columbia at awareness about the importance of immigration Destination Canada, and organized a bilingual and their role as the receiving community. This job fair to connect newcomers with employers.

8 Successful collaborations between intervening associations

Black History Month The spirit of community partnership was demonstrated during the activities organized in February to celebrate Black History Month. The Repère francophone opened the festivities with an immigration panel during a Café de l’intégration [Integration Cafe]. A few days later, celebrations including shows, dances, a craft sale, and multicultural buffets were held at the Educacentre College in Vancouver and at the Association francophone de Surrey [Surrey Francophone Association]. More than 200 people participated in these events, promoted by the AFAI and the Fédération’s immigration coordinator.

A moving citizenship ceremony This year, 37 Francophone immigrants became citizens during a special bilingual citizenship ceremony for Francophones. The activity was held on May 6, 2011 at the Jules-Verne School, with the help of CIC and in partnership with the AFAI. Similar ceremonies were also held in Victoria and Prince George during the year.

9 Health of Francophone Collaboration strengthens families and young our community: a few newcomers project. examples of encouraging partnerships

Integration Cafe.

Acquiring healthy lifestyle habits and increasing food The Province introduces new security project. collaboration models for immigrant settlement services Following the Province’s invitation to tender, the AFAI developed service agreements with Anglophone agencies from Vancouver, New Westminster, Tri-Cities, Surrey, and Victoria, in partnership with the Fédération’s immigration coordinator. These partnerships were approved by the provincial government and, since October 1, settlement officers from MOSAIC, SUCCESS, and Immigration and Refugee Services ([ICA]) have been providing their services to Francophone associations. Two full-time officers offer their services to Vancouver and New Westminster Francophone immigrants at Educacentre College, La Boussole, and at the Centre of Integration for African Immigrants. Two part-time officers service the Francophone immigrants of Surrey and Maillardville at the offices of the Association francophone de Surrey [Surrey Francophone Association] and the Société francophone de Maillardville [Maillardville Francophone Society]. Residents of Greater Victoria can go to the Société francophone de Victoria [Victoria Francophone Society].

10 Using Facebook to promote Francophone immigration The Agence francophone pour l’accueil des immigrants (AFAI) and the Fédération’s immigration coordinator undertook a campaign promoting its new immigration services. Reinforcing its use of social media, the Facebook fan page (www.facebook.com/Vivreen colombiebritannique.ca) attracted over 169 individuals over the year, and 245 people visited its website (www.vivreencolombie-britannique.ca).

11 BC Francophonie shares its expertise at the National Metropolis Conference Ms. Cécile Barbier, Coordinator at the AFAI, went to the National Metropolis Conference in Toronto, where she had the pleasure of leading a round table dedicated to two important subjects:

• Managing cultural diversity: its challenges and the barriers encountered by newly landed immigrants and young refugees who settle in Canada. • Health of Francophone immigrants: the need to train health-care personnel on the diversity of health systems throughout Canada’s provinces.

Mr. Tanniar Leba, Mr. Fabien Kabule, Mr. Mamadou Ka and Mr. Mohamed Soulami, were also representing BC at that conference.

How to create a winning team through cultural diversity

The AFAI organized a training session on managing cultural diversity in the workplace, entitled “Betting on a diversified workforce”. The workshop attracted 30 associations. We thank the Secrétariat aux affaires intergouvernementales canadiennes [Canadian Intergovernmental Affairs Secretariat], the Société de développement économique [Economic Development Society] and the Chambre de commerce francophone de Vancouver [Vancouver Francophone Chamber of Commerce] for their financial support of this event.

Our guest speaker, Mr. Mohamed Soulami from Actions interculturelles de développement et d’éducation (AIDE) [Intercultural development and education actions] in Sherbrooke, with Ms. Yseult Friolet, Ms. Cécile Barbier, Mr. Terence Doucet, Ms. Francine Legaut, and Ms. Rita Couture.

12 Communication

Progress on the A documentary directed implementation of at our youth the communication plan On March 16, 2012, the Fédération and Canadian Parents for French – BC and 2011 has been marked by community’s adoption, in Yukon Branch collaborated to launch a June, of the 2012–2015 Community communication video promoting Francophone presence plan. and its history in British Columbia. The video was launched at the magical Bill Reid The province’s Francophone associations should all Gallery in Vancouver, where one hundred get actively involved in order to secure the success guests gathered to take part in the unveiling. The video is available in French of this Five-Year Plan. Keeping with its leadership and English on DVD and can be found role, the Fédération began developing initiatives online at VIMEO. The DVDs will be shown targeted in the plan. in the province’s Francophone and immersion school network.

1 Creating an ambassadors’ network Our community would like to The Fédération has also devel- identify Francophone and oped a computer animation Francophile ambassadors to based on the butterfly used show its contribution to the for the “French a part of us” province. campaign to identify video content originating from the The Fédération, the Société de BC Francophone community. développement économique de la This animation can be either

Colombie-Britannique (SDECB), placed at the beginning of a The reception [BC Economic Development video or after the credits. It provided the Society] and the Conseil culturel was unveiled on the video opportunity for et artistique francophone de la documentary produced by Francophones and Franco- Colombie-Britannique (CCAFCB) Canadian Parents for French philes to estab- [BC Francophone Cultural and – BC and Yukon Branch and lish stronger Artistic Council] worked together those honouring Francophone ties. We were to develop guidelines, selec- entrepreneurs, produced by honoured to welcome tion criteria, and a recruitment the SDECB. The video is Vancouver’s VIPs method for the future selection available on the Internet. to this event. of its representatives and ambassadors. 13 The implementation of the communication plan is progressing

2 Increasing our visibility on social media The power of social media is unquestionable. According to statistics for 2010, more than one billion videos are watched every day on YouTube, there are more than 910 million Facebook users in the world as of 2012, and the growth of Twitter and LinkedIn is impressive.

Like other official language minority communities in Canada, our BC Francophone community has a small presence on social media and does not yet use it to its full potential. However, the situation is about to change.

Two years ago, fewer than five member associations had a presence on social media. Today, about a dozen members have a And that is only the beginning… Facebook page, a Twitter account, or a blog. The Fédération has had a Over the next year, the Fédération plans to bring added value to its Facebook Facebook page since November 8, 2010 (http://www.facebook.com/ page by creating more interaction and, if FederationFrancophoneCB). Since then, its page went from having possible, involvement from its “friends”. about 30 friends to 219. The Fédération also plans to work with the community to assess the possibility of developing a community blog.

3 Website Revitalization The Francophone associations identified the necessity to redesign their website with cutting edge technology to better reflect their belonging to a common entity: its dynamism, its successes and its diversity. They also emphasized the importance of a web portal to bring together interactive information from diverse community sources in a unified way.

The Fédération, supported by a working committee, assessed the technical, financial, and human alternatives associated with that type of technological upgrade. Last October, the Fédération and the Société de développement économique de la Colombie- Britannique (SDECB) [BC Economic Development Society] agreed on a collaborative project leading to the implementation of a web portal acting as the new gateway for British Columbia’s Francophone community.

14

Increasing Francophone presence

4 Showing off our trademark In an effort to increase the visibility kit will encourage them to display the sticker of Francophone professionals and reinforce their sense of belonging to and groups in the province, the the community. This kit will be distributed Fédération undertook a series of during the fall of 2012. activities to promote our trademark “La Colombie-Britannique, j’en fais The Fédération has also continued to partie – French a part of us” in the promote use of this trademark among French speaking professionals’ the associations by giving them samples of directory “L’Annuaire - La Colombie- the promotional trademark; a zipper pull in Britannique à votre service en français.” the shape of our blue and green butterfly.

Having observed that the Francophone More than 1,000 of those were distributed merchants and professionals were at various festivals this year. The zipper using our trademark very scarcely, the Fédération has pull was also included in the Canadian Parents for developed an awareness kit that includes a guide on French kit distributed to 300 participants during the how to use the trademark, and a sticker that can be 2012 public speaking competition. Earlier, the Fédération displayed at their point of service. We hope that this distributed 250 bumper stickers to its members.

The Festival de la francophonie de Victoria [Victoria Francophone Festival] Our blue and green butterfly proves to be and the Nanaimo Maple Sugar Festival helped promote our community’s popular, as institutions who are not even trademark among families and youth. members of the Fédération have adopted it.

15 5 Participation, participation, participation The Francophone community’s visibility can also be increased through a presence in the province’s main events.

To encourage associations to participate in these main events, the Fédération has created an interactive calendar of major events to be distributed to its members. The Fédération hopes that this calendar will encourage their involvement in mainstream cultural and social events. A few examples of participation 4 RésoSanté at the Diversity Health Fair 4 Société francophone de Victoria [Victoria Francophone Society] at the Victoria Film Festival 4 Centre culturel francophone de l’Okanagan [Okanagan Francophone Cultural Center] at Kelowna citizens of the world week

A calendar intended for French immersion Since February 2012, the Fédération has been producing a calendar of Francophone activities intended for parents, students, and staff of immersion schools. The Fédération would like to thank Canadian Parents for French – BC and Yukon Branch for its distribution. It will hopefully attract new participants to expand the Francophone space.

Micaela Pereira-Bajard, a representative on the Fédération’s Board of Directors, spoke briefly to The broadcast of La petite séduction, a TV series produced by wish everyone a good time at the heritage and CBC-French, showed our community (Victoria and Maillardville) cultural Festival du Bois in Maillardville. to all the Francophones outside of British Columbia.

16 Civil servants Ms. Carolyn Glover, Citizenship and Immigration Canada Regional Programs Advisor for Official Languages and Francophone Immigration in British Columbia and Yukon, received the “Cournouiller d’or” prize during the March “Vancouver Celebrations of la Francophonie”. Since 2009, Ms. Glover has worked tirelessly to promote Francophone immigration, the integration of Francophones, and the appreciation of their different cultures.

For the tenth consecutive year, the Fédération awarded its “Cournouiller d’or” prize to a civil servant highlighting the person’s work and contribution to the development of the Francophone community in British Columbia. Ms. Padminee Chandunsing (right) presents a commemorative plaque to CIC representative, Ms. Annie Desgagné, Program Director, Policy and Planning, in the absence of the recipient of the prize, Ms. Carolyn Glover.

Volunteers The “Napoléon Gareau” prize highlights the contribution of volunteers to the development, advancement and growth of the Francophone community. This year, it was awarded to Mr. Séverin Gaudet at the Fédération’s Annual General Meeting.

Mr. Gaudet has been the Artistic Director of Les Cornouillers, a dance company, since 1991. His enthusiasm and expertise has led the company to new heights. Mr. Gaudet has The recipient of the “Napoléon Gareau” prize, always been a strong supporter of French education Mr. Gaudet, with the President of the Fédération, Mr. Réal Roy, and Ms. Denise Branter from and considers his implication to be both a duty and Les Cornouillers. a privilege. All his words and actions help to keep the French language alive and well.

17 Association employees At the Annual General Meeting in June, the Fédération presented the “Gérald-et-Henriette-Moreau Award” Le Prixd-e t- to Ms. Marguerite Mercier, Executive Director of the Gé ral au te- More He nriet Association francophone de Kamloops (AFK) nique ie-Britan a Colomb hones de l te-Moreau à ancop -Henriet ation des fr ald-et [Kamloops Francophone Association]. La Fédér er le prix Gér e de décern est heureus -Henri t et -e t e d - me l M

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. i r n dévouement P ce et so ersonnel n excellen e tout le p Francophone preschool and a “Chez Tintin et Milou” Pour so citations d The “Gérald-et-Henriette-Moreau Award” cères féli a FFCB. n tion de l Avec les si ministra nseil d'ad et du co daycare in the region. She has also participated in recognizes the contribution of employees 1 1 juin 201 Remis le 1 tion of the province’s Francophone associations. La Fédéra ancouver le renovating the association’s new community des francophones Remis à V -Britannique de la Colombie centre, and in organizing annual events that are greatly The recipient of the award, Ms. Mercier, is seen here with her husband (to her left) and enjoyed by the community. Under her guidance and leadership, two representatives of the Association des the AFK has become financially independent and has been able francophones de Kamloops [Kamloops to establish close partnerships with local and/or provincial Francophone Association], Mr. Gilles Viaud Francophone organizations. (to her right) and Mr. Éric Villeneuve.

Students in the Francophone Artists and immersion program Each year, as part of Pacifique en chanson, organized The Fédération presented a certificate by the Conseil culturel et artistique [Cultural and Artistic Council], the Fédération presents the of honour and a $1,000 bursary to people’s choice award. In 2011, the prize was Ms. Jennifer Appiah, a graduate of awarded to Ms. Myriam Parent. the Francophone program at the Duchess Park Secondary School in Prince George. This scholarship recognized her for her efforts and academic performance, and encour- ages her to continue her post- secondary education in French.

As it does each year, the Fédération also presented a $100 prize to a winner of the public speaking Mr. Christian Deron, Government Relations and competition organized by Canadian Research Coordinator with the Fédération, with the recipient of the people’s choice award, Parents for French – BC & Yukon Ms. Myriam Parent. Branch. 18 In memoriam During its Annual General Meeting, the Fédération honoured the memory of Ms. Laurette Agnew and Ms. Marie Woolridge, two women passionate about the French language. Mr. Jack Woolridge, Marie’s husband, and Ms. Yvette Dehn, a granddaughter, were in attendance at this event dedicated to these two volunteers, who worked tirelessly for the development and growth of the Francophone community in BC. Ms. Josette Salles, Ms. Gisèle Samson, and Ms. Yseult Friolet presented an impressive portrait of their achievements. Ms. Yvette Dehn, Ms. Yseult Friolet, Mr. Jack Woolridge, and Ms. Josette Salles.

A new member for the Fédération: The Annual General Meeting The Association francophone is also a training opportunity de la Vallée du Fraser Representatives from member associations were given several workshops at the 66th Annual [Fraser Valley Francophone General Meeting on June 10, 11, and 12, 2011. The Association] information shared over the three-day meeting helped update delegates on priority issues for the community. The topics were as varied as: • Immigration • Links to the community’s Global Development • Development of Official-Language Plan, community inclusion in the strategic plan of Communities Program the Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie- • Positive measures Britannique [BC Francophone School Board] • Part VII of the “Official Languages Act” • The province’s Francophone Affairs Program • Benefits and drawbacks of a charitable status • The operational plan for community for the Fondation des francophones de la Colombie- communications Britannique [BC Francophone Foundation]

The Language Rights Support Program (LRSP) offers a welcome legal recourse A few months after first visiting Vancouver to present the program to delegates at the Rendez-vous des présidents et présidentes [Meeting of Presidents] in November, Ms. Geneviève Boudreau returned last March to provide the community with further information. Her second workshop was attended by about twenty people. They came to learn more about the application of the Official Languages Act, legal recourse services offered by the LRSP, and to reflect on the prevailing situation in the province in terms of education, justice and as part of Canada-BC agreements regarding official languages. On the left, Ms. Geneviève Boudreau, LRSP Director.

19 Members of the panel, and moderator Ms. Suzanne Bossé, Executive Director of the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada (FCFA) [Francophone and Acadian Communities Federation of Canada].

A 300,000 strong French-speaker community reflects on how to be more welcoming There is strength in numbers and, for some time, Mr. Marc Dalton) shared their experiences and their Fédération stakeholders have been reflecting on how determination to use the French language. During the to better succeed in coming together with Francophiles. question and answer period, a lively discussion helped To this end, the Fédération organized a community identify several priority actions to be taken to create dialogue at the last Rendez-vous des présidents et closer ties. présidentes [Meeting of Presidents] to identify opportunities for dialogue and synergies. One of these was increased cooperation between the Fédération and Canadian Parents for French. During A panel consisting of several Francophones and this debate, it was good to see Mr. Dalton, one of the Francophile personalities from various fields Francophile members of the provincial legislature, (Ms Daphe Lu, Ms Alexandra Zwick, Ms. Heleni Kontoni be so proud of his affiliation to the great French Lewis, Ms. Suzanne Jacob, Ms. Renée Trépanier, and speaking family.

Prior to the dialogue, Mr. Massood Joomratty presented the linguistic L’Afrique situation in Mauritius, where French and English co-exist. On that island, everyone is bilingual, and some are Madagaskar L’Île Maurice trilingual. French, English, Creole and some oriental languages are integral parts of the country’s identity.

20 Statistics More than 22 schools Unveiling of the 2011-2012 Directory across the province took part of French-language services in the contest. On September 29, the Fédération launched the new edition of its directory. A total of 247 professionals, including 15 new ones, More than 540 students, contributed to the success of this important tool for identifying from kindergarden to grade Francophone services and for promoting the community. seven, submitted The originality of this edition lies in the collaboration between the Fédération drawings. and the Conseil scolaire francophone de la C.-B. (CSF) [BC Francophone School Board] in illustrating the cover page. Primary school students were invited to participate in a drawing contest. Participation of children, teachers and schools was extraordinary. Mattéo Perron, a grade four student at Les Aignons school in Squamish, won the contest and saw his drawing reproduced on the cover page of 12,000 copies of the Directory, in addition to receiving a cheque for $200 from the Fédération and the CSF.

Mattéo Perron, the winner of the contest, drew a representation of Toba Inlet to illustrate the Directory’s cover.

According to the young artist, Toba Inlet is the place he likes. “I love the ocean and the boats. I have a sailboat named Antigua. There are cliffs where waterfalls descend into the ocean.”

The Rendez-vous de la francophonie The Canadian Foundation for Cross-Cultural Dialogue, organizer of Rendez-vous de la Franco- phonie (RVF), indicated that they were very happy with the 14th annual RVF, held from March 9-25, 2012. Traffic on the website doubled, 12,800 people became fans of its Facebook page, and more than 1,000 activities were organized: the largest number of activities as part of the RVF.

In British Columbia, there was also an increase in the activities organized by Francophone associa- tions. In March, close to fifty events were held across the province. Some associations even took advantage of the week of festivities to create part- nerships with their local communities in order to promote the French language and culture. For its part, the Fédération marked RVF with a reception organized in cooperation with Canadian Parents for French – BC and Yukon Branch. Promoting the RVF during the Nanaimo Maple Festival.

21 A Drummondville delegation visits BC During the summer of 2012, representatives from Vancouver and Drummondville will gather again to conclude the Canadian Federation for Cross-Cultural Dialogue’s three year project aimed at building bridges between cities in Quebec and Francophone communities elsewhere in Canada. Following a trip by the British Columbia community to Quebec in 2009, and a visit by people from Drummondville to British Columbia in 2010, participants from these two cities were invited to a large symposium on culture at La Roche sur Yon / Puy du Fou in France. We trust Mr. Pierre Rivard, Executive Director of the Centre culturel francophone de Vancouver, and Mr. Christian Francey, Executive Director of the Société francophone de Victoria, will represent our community well and come back with interesting ideas to share.

The Fédération participates in the “Vancouver Celebration of la Francophonie” The Fédération was part of the 2012 edition of the “Vancouver Celebration of la Francophonie”, organized by the Pacific Federal Council in the Sinclair Centre. It promoted the event and held a kiosk there. Most of the participants (72%) liked the activity’s new location.

22 Media + technology

An agreement is reached with the multilingual newspaper “The Source” The loss of the Express du Pacifique, the only community, the Conseil scolaire francophone Francophone newspaper in the province, was a [Francophone School Board], and the bilingual blow to the community and was keenly felt. At newspaper “The Source”. the last Rendez-vous des présidents et présidentes (RVPP) [Meeting of Presidents], it was decided to Following several meetings between “The Source” form a working committee to study possibilities Director, Mr. Mamadou Gangué, and the negotiation for a form of print publication in French for British team (Mr. Claveau, Mr. Deron and Mr. Francey), Colombia. The committee, made up of Ms. Isabelle the community will be able to count on one page, Boullet, Mr. Christian Deron, Ms. Jocelyne Fontaine, maybe more, of community news in “The Source” Mr. Christian Francey, Mr. Marc Lévesque, Ms. Danielle newspaper. The cooperative project will be reassessed Marcotte, Mr. Jean-François Packwood, Ms. Nadia at the end of summer before making the partnership Rannou, Ms. Christine Sotteau and Mr. Gilles Toupin, official in the fall of 2012. proposed a cooperative agreement between the

The Mayor of Vancouver with members of the team from “The Source” newspaper after it was awarded the 2011 Cultural Harmony Award.

Other developments and follow up n The Fédération took part in the FCFA’s national n The Fédération worked with the FCFA to assess exercise aimed at commenting and influencing the the impact of the transition to digital broadcasting CRTC’s 2011-2014 action plan for the implementa- in BC. tion of section 41 of the Official Languages Act. The submission highlighted the benefits of the Official n The Fédération also shared its observations with the Language Minority Communities (OLMC)-CRTC FCFA regarding the benefits and repercussions of working committee. the Local Programming Improvement Fund in our province. The FCFA made a national submission to n In the summer of 2011, the Fédération surveyed the CRTC on that issue last February. its members to support the preparation of its submission regarding the renewal of Société Radio-Canada’s licence. However, the public process was postponed by the CRTC in June 2012.

23 Event guide for organizing major events The Fédération and the Conseil culturel et artistique de la C.-B. [BC Cultural and Artistic Council] developed and presented a guide to involve BC’s Francophone community in major events with provincial or national repercussions. This document, which is available to the community, provides a framework for our associations’ participation in major events requiring a Francophone component.

Two new associations promote the use and teaching of French in British Columbia

Following a decision by the provincial government to teach French as a foreign language, on which they did an about face, Learn English the Fédération and the Francophone education professionals in BC met on several occasions to implement structures aimed at ensuring Apprennez that French continues to be taught as an official language in our province. le français Teaching partners thus created the Conseil pour le Français [Council for French], made up of institutions dedicated to education, including Alliance française, the BC Teachers’ Federation, the Collège Éducacentre, the University of British Columbia (UBC), and the University of Victoria (UVIC), to ensure the important role of French in the province’s curriculum. The bylaws and operations of the organiza- tion are being finalized before it is officially registered with the authorities in the next year.

At the last Rendez-vous des présidents et presidents [Meeting of Presidents], Francophone professors and academics from Simon Fraser University (SFU), UBC and UVIC approved the foundations of the Association des universitaires francophones et Francophiles de la C.-B. [BC Francophone Universities Teachers Association] aimed at bringing together these professionals and promoting the increased use of French in teaching and in scientific research. The bylaws were finalized and approved and the members of the association will elect their first Board of Directors in 2012.

24 Agreement Secretariat A huge relief as the collaboration agreement for 2009-2013 is finally signed On July 12, 2011, the Fédération, on behalf of the by the Department, but rather an annual allocation community, signed the 2009-2013 collaboration that must be renegotiated year after year. The positive agreement with the Government of Canada. This points in the new agreement include a strengthened accord is aimed at fostering the development inter-departmental role and the creation of a priorities and growth of BC’s Francophone community. and follow-up committee aimed at better directing The members enthusiastically welcomed the the community’s priorities and helping organizations signing of this agreement, even though it did better diversify their funds. not include a multi-year financial commitment

The community’s coordination is moving ahead! At the start of the fiscal year, theFédération completed its coordination exercise with organizations involved in preparing the 2009-2014 GDP and the government institutions that support it. Thirty-four (34) organizations, eleven (11) federal government institutions, BC’s Francophone Affairs Program, including 11 provincial depart- ments, and the Quebec government’s Programme d’appui à la francophonie canadienne [Support Program for the Canadian Francophonie] came together for the community and are working to improve services. This is the second time that the Fédération has conducted this exercise with the community, but the first time that it has seen such success. This bodes well for the future!

Analyzing, programming and project applications remain a difficult process Representatives from the “Community from the Ministry and the community’s Proposal Table on Funding” met on development priorities were developed by December 9-10, 2011 and again on both parties, and were used to evaluate January 20, 2012 with representatives 2012-2013 funding requests. The results from Canadian Heritage, to analyze funding of the analysis were progressively divulged applications for 2012-2013. New evaluation over the spring of 2012. grids containing the new requirements

25 Allocation of funds for 2011-2012

Program funding Funds requested by the community: 1,131,086 Funds granted: 810,847 Number of organizations that submitted a programming application: 11

Project funding Funds requested by the community: 980,233 Funds granted: 490,774 Number of organizations that submitted a project application: 27

Evaluating the community’s progress At the Annual General Meeting in June 2011, after having completed stage 1 of the cooperation exercise, Francophone organizations were invited to fill out a form listing their contributions aligned with the results of the community’s 2009-2014 Global Development Plan (GDP). This cooperation exercise (Stage 2) must be done each year by all associations, until 2014. The data gathered by each organization will then be compiled and used to evaluate the results achieved by the community as a whole under the 2009-2014 GDP.

26 Determining our next priorities To evaluate our community’s progress and to decide what its next priorities should be for the coming years, the Fédération has developed a process known as a critical path.

The components of the critical path (specific calendar of activities) for evaluating the 2009-2014 GDP and developing the 2014-2019 GDP were presented to the members of the community at the Rendez-vous des présidents et des presidents [Meeting of Presidents] in November.

Members of the Provincial Consultative Committee for 2011-2012 n Education sector representative n Economy sector representative: and Chair: Mr. Serge Corbeil Ms. Chantal Vadnais n General member: n Northern region representative: Vacant Mr. Michel Bouchard n Seniors’ representative: n Southern region representative: Ms. Aline Jobin-Fowlow Mr. Éric Villeneuve n Women’s group representative: n Youth representative: Vacante Mr. Marc Forster n FFCB member: n Metropolitan Vancouver representative: Mr. Réal Roy Ms. Jocelyne Lawson n Secretary: n Vancouver Island representative: Ms. Christine Sotteau Mr. François Béliveau

27 Support

Support for the new association of retirees and seniors The Fédération supported the Association francophone des retraités et aînés de la Colombie-Britannique (AFRACB) [BC Francophone Elders and Retiree Association] in its strategic planning, and in its implementation. Among other things, the Fédération attended the association’s Annual General Meeting Statistics: in May 2011, the Board of Directors meeting in June, and organized Close to fifty participants a consultation between members of the Fédération and AFRACB from various organizations across representatives in November 2011. the province want to work in cooperation with the AFRACB.

Members of the AFRACB’s Board of Directors, from left to right, Ms. Thora Bajard, Ms. Margo Anderson, Ms. Claudette Doxtader, 92% of participants in the consultation Ms. Denise Branter, Ms. Yseult Friolet, Mr. Louis Philippe Fortier, and replied that the AFRACB is an important the President, Ms. Marie Robillard, at the planning working session. organization for the development of the Francophone community.

28 COOPERATION Assessment of the funds obtained from governmental institutions

$11,277,530 was received from 2010-2011 government agencies and institutions.

15 federal agencies 9 provincial 4 municipalities Government and institutions departments and of Quebec the Francophone Totalling 6 projects $70,000 Totalling 123/148 projects Affairs Program from 6 organizations, from 26 organizations, or or $129,414 $6,796,389 Totalling 30/36 projects from 19 organizations, or $4,281,727

2009-2010 : Federal government: $7,221,428 Quebec government: $39,000 Provincial government: $1,094,300 Total: $8,621,889 Municipal governments: $267,161

Agencies supporting our community through services:

n CBC - French Services n The Canada Revenue Agency n Fisheries and Oceans n Public Works and Government Services n The School of Public Service n Canada World Youth and Katimavik (RIP)

29 A very useful document for diversifying funding sources In December, to support the community network in its funding search, the Fédération gathered and published a list of government financial programs for 2011-2012. The list includes some thirty programs from all three levels of government. The Fédération plans to update this list each year.

Defining the concept of “positive measures” in order to better understand it At the Fédération’s Annual General Meeting, under subsection (1).” With the help of Mr. Deni more than 70 representatives from Francophone Loriau, a representative of the Office of the organizations were able to learn more about Commissioner of Official Languages, and the amendments that had been made to Ms. Yseult Friolet, the Fédération’s Coordinator subsection 41(2) of Part VII of the Official of Interdepartmental Cooperation, they learned Languages Act (OLA), which states that about the methodology suggested by the Office “every federal institution has the duty to of the Commissioner to federal institutions for ensure that “positive measures” are taken defining positive measures and consulting with for the implementation of the commitments the Francophone community about them.

30 The Interdepartmental consultation with the Pacific Federal Council proves constructive Throughout the year, contacts were maintained with the Official Languages Committee of the Pacific Federal Council (PFC) and federal departments and agencies to implement consultations with the community in order to evaluate services and programs from federal institutions. The level of satisfaction among associations was measured as regards the PFC’s various initiatives, and new work approaches were identified. The consultation was greatly appreciated by both parties.

The workshop examined three questions:

What are the opportunities and challenges facing BC’s 1 Francophone community as regards the delivery of services and programs by federal institutions?

What can be done to improve the delivery of services 2 and programs by federal institutions in order to achieve concrete results?

How can the ties and partnerships between the Francophone community 3 and federal institutions be strengthened and how can we increase the visibility of federal institutions within the community? 96% 96% of associations want to attend the next % consultation with the 78 Pacific Federal Council. In the evaluation questionnaire following the consultation, 78% of associations indicated The Federal Council wants to improve that they were satisfied. ties to the community, continue networking meetings, and develop an action plan for conducting regular consultations with the Francophone community.

31 Health

This year, RésoSanté connected with the community by means of various province-wide access initiatives:

n RésoSanté launched a virtual support group for families affected by mental health problems. The website, “Parlons FREE santé mentale” [“Let’s Talk Mental Health”], was created EVENT in partnership with La Boussole and the BC Schizophrenia Society. The moderator of this forum is a mental health specialist. Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Saturday, March 3, 2012 from 10am – 3pm www.reachingfamiliesproject.org/francais

CROATIAN CULTURAL CENTRE n 3250 Commercial Drive @ 16th Avenue near Commercial/Broadway Skytrain RésoSanté launched a French version of the school resource www.amssa.org/healthfair2012 HeartSmartKids in partnership with the Conseil scolaire * Health & Wellness Exhibitors * Healthy Kids Activity Zone francophone de la C.-B. [BC Francophone School Board] * Free Medical Screenings * Multicultural Performance Stage * Healthy Cooking Stage * Onsite Interpretation and the BC Heart and Stroke Foundation. More than 30 teachers have been trained as part of this initiative. RésoSanté wants to pursue this initiative by implementing a project called “Healthy School”.

n RésoSanté organized health workshops with five Franco- phone community associations in Powell River, Kelowna, Kamloops, Richmond, and Nelson. Videos of some of those workshops are available online and have been included in the RésoSanté newsletter. www.resosante.ca

n RésoSanté increased the number of French-speaking professionals included in the Health Directory. It now includes more than 450 health resources.

32 Acknowledgement of our funders and main partners

The Fédération would like to thank: n Canadian Heritage n Citizenship and Immigration Canada n Health Canada – Société santé en français n Public Health Agency of Canada n The BC Intergovernmental Affairs Secretariat, Francophone Affairs n Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation n Government of Quebec – SAIC n Canadian Foundation for Cross Cultural Dialogue n Société Radio Canada – British Columbia (CBC - French Services) n 41 departments – Directory

The Fédération would also like to note the work of the members of Board of Directors, its staff, and the many volunteers who have supported it.

Production of this annual report was made possible through the financial support of the Department of Canadian Heritage. Translation has been graciously provided by the Centre of Expertise in Human Resource Planning of Canada Revenue Agency.

33 administration

The Fédération Team n Francine Bergeron n Marie-Noël Holland n Pascaline Nsekera Receptionist and Coordinator, Coordinator, Immigration Secretariat Officer Agreement Secretariat Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] n Michelle Proctor n Danielle Chaussé n Letitia Ionita Receptionist, Administrative Assistant Accountant Directory Coordinator Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] n Christian Deron n Ariane Kitengie n Christine Sotteau Governmental Relations Acting Coordinator, Executive Director and Research Coordinator Immigration Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] n Yseult Friolet n Mylène Letellier Coordinator, Interdepartmental Coordinator, Communications Cooperation Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

34 administration

The RésoSanté Team n Séverine Debacker n Louis Giguère Programs Manager Director Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

The AFAI Team n Cécile Barbier n Jean-Bruno Nkondi Coordinator Projects Officer Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

35 Board of Directors Members (2011) n Réal Roy, President n André Lamontagne, Vice-President n Chantal Vadnais, Treasurer n Padminee Chundunsing, Metropolitan Vancouver Representative (2 years) n Micaela Pereira-Bajard, Metropolitan Vancouver Representative (1 year) n Gilles Toupin, North Vancouver Island Representative n Moussa Magassa, South Vancouver Island Representative n Éric Villeneuve, Southern Region Representative n Danielle Dalton, Northern Region Representative

Absent: Ms. Micaela Pereira-Bajard and Mr. Éric Villeneuve.

36

La Fédération des francophones de la C.-B. 1575 West 7th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6J 1S1 Tel: (604) 732-1420 • Fax: (604) 732-3236 Email: [email protected] • Website: www.ffcb.ca Facebook: www.facebook.com/FederationFrancophoneCB