September 25 in each year is proclaimed as Franco-Ontarian Day.
Preamble The French language has been spoken in Ontario since the 17th century. The year 2010 represents the 400th anniversary of the French presence in this province, which began with a series of explorations that eventually led to the mapping of the vast waterways of the interior, the establishment of partnerships with First Nations and the first Francophone settlements in modern day Ontario. The Francophone community of Ontario is the largest French-speaking community in Canada outside Quebec. French is one of the two official languages of Canada. In Ontario, it is recognized as an official language in the courts, in education and in the Legislature. The Province of Ontario recognizes the importance of serving its citizens in French. In 1986, the Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the French Language Services Act which recognizes the right of Ontario citizens to receive government services in French as provided in that Act, and expresses the wish of the Legislative Assembly to preserve the cultural heritage of the Francophone community for future generations. The Francophone community has made and continues to make a significant contribution to the vitality of Ontario’s society. This linguistic, cultural and economic contribution is enriched by Francophones originating from outside the province who have chosen Ontario as their home. Many Franco-Ontarians commemorate September 25 to celebrate their language and heritage and also take pride in their collective accomplishments. September 25 is the anniversary of the first unveiling of the Franco-Ontarian flag in Sudbury in 1975; the Franco-Ontarian Emblem Act, 2001 recognizes the flag as the emblem of the Francophone community of Ontario. By proclaiming September 25 as Franco-Ontarian Day, this Act officially recognizes the contributions of the Francophone community of Ontario to the social, economic and political life of the Province and the community’s importance in Ontario’s society. Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows: Franco-Ontarian Day 1. September 25 in each year is proclaimed as Franco-Ontarian Day. 2010, c. 4, s. 1. 2. Omitted (provides for coming into force of provisions of this Act). 2010, c. 4, s. 2. 3. Omitted (enacts short title of this Act). 2010, c. 4, s. 3. ______________