Students Embrace French Language and Culture on Franco-Ontarian Day

St. Clair Catholic’s French Immersion schools were a sea of green and white as they celebrated Franco-Ontarian Day on Sept. 25.

Franco-Ontarian Day honors the rich history, culture, and contributions of Ontario’s Francophone community.

Students and staff at St. Anne’s in Blenheim, Monsignor Uyen in Chatham, Christ the King in Wallaceburg and Gregory A. Hogan in Sarnia marked the day with special celebrations at their schools. Activities included raising the Franco-Ontarian flag, singing French songs and parading through their communities to showcase their pride.

Students were also invited to take part in the Franco-Ontarian Day celebration at the Capitol Theatre in Chatham, which included a French-language magic performance by two-time Canadian Champion of Magic Marc Trudel.

Tiffany Clark, Principal of St. Anne’s: “As a Catholic school community offering French Immersion programming, we recognize the importance of fostering an appreciation for the French language and culture in our students. Today's celebrations provided opportunities to strengthen that appreciation, honour our Franco-Ontarian community and reinforce the importance of preserving and promoting Ontario's French-language heritage for generations to come. We extend our sincere thanks to the students, staff, families and community partners who helped make today's celebrations so meaningful.”

Danielle Restivo, Vice Principal of Gregory A. Hogan: “Our hallways were full of green and white, with students and staff showing their Franco-Ontarian pride throughout the day. It was a great opportunity to bring our school community together and celebrate French language and culture in a fun and meaningful way.”