The Charter of the French Language, also known as Bill 101, is a Quebec law that defines French as the province’s official language. Passed in 1977, it is foundational to Quebec society, aiming to make French the “normal and everyday language of work, instruction, communication, commerce and business.” The charter has been amended six times since 1977. It also protects Quebec’s indigenous languages.
Weston Donehower, a retired history professor and former director of Champlain College’s Montreal campus, discusses Quebec history leading up to Bill 101. His lecture is part of the series “La Francophonie in Vermont,” sponsored by the AFLCR and Fletcher Free Library’s Intercultural Programs. You can watch the video here, via Town Meeting TV.
Date: May 31, 2012
Length: 1 hour 29 minutes