Did you know that the Rendez-vous de la Francophonie (RVF) has been around for over 20 years? Every year, in March, Francophones and Acadians invite Canadians of all linguistic and ethnic backgrounds to celebrate the French language by participating in various cultural and community events.
Comedy shows, musical performances, festivals, film screenings and flag raisings are just some of the many activities listed annually in the RVF event calendar.
And let’s not forget the RVF’s national contests, which continue to offer exciting prizes that attract thousands of participants, thanks to valuable partnerships with prestigious organizations.
You’ll find all the details for the 21st edition at RVF.ca.
This year, the organizers of our nationwide Francophone event have decided to extend the RVF until the end of March, because of the many occasions for celebrating Canadian Francophonie! One of those occasions is the 50th anniversary of Canada’s Official Languages Act. Together, we’ll mark this important event in all provinces and territories, in a spirit of unity and inclusivity.
On March 20, we’re holding a major national event in the National Capital Region as our way of marking the Journée internationale de la Francophonie. Don’t forget to make a note of the date; the organizers have some wonderful surprises in store for the evening event, which will take place at the new Excentricité Pavilion at La Cité College, in Ottawa.
Five good reasons to celebrate
Some of you may be asking yourselves why it’s important to celebrate our Canadian Francophonie. Here are a few reasons, but I’m sure that your own pride as a Francophone or love of all things French will provide you with an equal source of inspiration.
1. Let’s step into the spotlight
When we live in a minority community, it’s sometimes easy to blend into the majority. With so many opportunities throughout March, let’s take advantage of the RVF to come together!
2. Let’s foster our pride
Our language and culture can find expression in a variety of ways: in a book, a movie, a song or a good conversation. Artists and artisans of the Canadian Francophonie: let’s foster our Francophone pride unreservedly.
3. Let’s not forget our past
Throughout history, our Francophone and Acadian ancestors accomplished great things to preserve the French language and culture. Let’s take a moment to look back at our past and honour those who came before us.
4. Let’s think about the future
Where will our Francophone and Acadian communities be in a year, in 10 years, in 50 years? By celebrating Canadian Francophonie to the fullest, we can also shape our future and that of our family and friends.
5. Let’s invite our neighbours
We’re part of a huge, diverse country where everyone can contribute in their own way to our collective happiness. Let’s invite Francophiles, Anglophones and allophones to discover all the riches of our Francophonie. We have so much to share …
Canadian Francophonie is now being showcased in many places near you as part of the RVF. It’s time to speak, sing, shout, breathe, inspire, touch hearts and interact in French.
Above all, whatever our reasons for celebrating, let’s hope that our love for the French language and for the various cultures that make up our Canadian Francophonie will help us keep the party going throughout the whole year!
Follow the RVF on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, using the hashtag #RVFranco. And read the RVF blog, ACTION!
Translated by Josephine Versace, Language Portal of Canada
