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Meet Senator

Joan Fraser

The Hon. Joan  Fraser, B.A. Senator Joan Fraser is well-known to Canadians as a journalist and commentator. Appointed to the Senate on September 17, 1998, by the Rt. Honourable Jean Chrétien, Senator Joan Fraser represents the province of Quebec and the Senatorial Division of De Lorimier.

Issues and Ideas

Official Languages

Bilingualism and equality are at the core of the spirit of the Charter and of Canadian identity and values.

Senator Claudette Tardif
In an increasingly globalized world, where the physical and ideological distance between cultures continues to erode, language plays a crucial role in preserving and celebrating diversity. 

Throughout Canada’s history, the struggle to accommodate and promote a dual linguistic culture has been at the centre of our political narrative.  Since the Official Languages Act of 1968, Canada has been a global leader in the promotion and protection of minority languages.  For Canada to succeed well into the 21st century, bilingualism and multiculturalism must not only be the basis of our nation, but the foundation for a truly globalized state. 

Official language rights are frequently supported through the advocacy of Liberal senators.  Acting as protectors of linguistic and cultural minorities, Liberal senators recognize the importance of our official languages policy and work in a myriad of ways to ensure its proper function.  Whether through their review of legislation, or through the studies of the Standing Senate Committee on Official Languages, Liberal senators understand that linguistic duality and cultural diversity are some of the key traits that make Canadian society unique.         

To learn more about what Liberal senators are doing to promote linguistic duality please browse the information provided below.

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