Press Release
Je suis bilingue... I don't excuse my French!
Written on: 2007-08-16
Regina, SK, August 16, 2007 - It's on that note that the Coalition for the Promotion of French Language and the Francophone Culture in Saskatchewan (the Coalition) launched its first promotional campaign today in a press conference held at the University of Regina's Institut Français.The campaign entitled "Bonjour Saskatchewan", which targets young parents and youth, is aimed at creating awareness for the many advantages of learning French, and the availability of programs, here in Saskatchewan, which offer French either as a first language or through immersion, intensive or core learning. "More and more employers, here in Saskatchewan are looking for bilingual qualified employees", explained Kellie Garrett, Senior Vice-President of Strategy, Knowledge and Reputation at Farm Credit Canada (FCC), and Honorary President for the Coalition. "Learning French allows our youth to discover another language and another culture and gives them an advantage on the global market."
The Coalition's campaign, which starts today, focuses on the many advangtages of learning French. In addition to the economic benefits, several studies conclude that learning a second language helps children improve their overall school performance, develop better problem-solving skills, adapt more easily to other cultures and even improve their skills in English.
The youth campaign, which boasts a "Je suis bilingue... I don't excuse my French" slogan; a sly wink, at those who use the expression "Excuse my French", is meant to instill a sense of pride in our bilingual youth and encourage them to continue to learn French.
A Web site with information for parents, such as the location of different French school programs, as well as a "cool" section dedicated to teenagers was also launched today at www.bonjoursk.ca/.
Billboards, posters, newspaper, radio and television ads will be seen across the province, reminding people that Learning French is a smart choice.
The Coalition for the Promotion of the French Language and Francophone Culture in Saskatchewan is a coalition of stakeholders from government, francophone associations, parent groups and businesses dedicated to promoting the French language and francophone culture in Saskatchewan. The Coalition's goals include raising awareness of the opportunities for Saskatchewan children to learn and use French and increasing the visibility of Francophone culture throughout the province.
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For more information please contact:
Marie-France Kenny (bilingual)
Coalition for the promotion of the French Language and the Francophone Culture in Saskatchewan
250 - 3850 Hillsdale Street
Regina, Saskatchewan S4S 7J5
Phone: 306-591-3277