Two key terms frequently arise in political discussions in this region: Quebec identity, also known as l’identité Québécoise in French. But what exactly does this concept entail, and who has the authority to define it? In the lead-up to the October 5 provincial election, a diverse group of Quebec residents shared their varied perspectives on the matter.
The conversations that ensued were candid and nuanced. I engaged with individuals who immigrated from India and Pakistan in the 1970s under René Lévesque’s leadership. Additionally, I spoke with young proponents of Quebec sovereignty with Indigenous and Maghrebi backgrounds.
Among those I conversed with was a woman who identifies primarily as a Montrealer rather than a Quebecer. Others highlighted the delicate balance they maintain between their pride in Quebec and their staunch defense of English-language institutions.
One individual who shed light on this topic is Krishnavi Sivanesan, a 25-year-old Montreal native. She devotes her weekends to teaching Tamil to younger individuals who often converse in French during lessons. Having fled war-torn Sri Lanka due to difficulties faced as Tamils, Sivanesan empathizes with Quebec’s efforts to preserve the French language. However, she believes that the discourse surrounding non-Francophones and immigrants often overlooks their community’s valuable contributions.
Dolores Chew and Shaheen Ashraf, who have called Quebec home for over 50 years, reminisced over their experiences in a Quebec shaped by René Lévesque. Despite one of them voting ‘Yes’ in the 1980 referendum, their sense of belonging evolved over time.
Nabil Ben Ali Ouriaghli and Benjamin Gingras, members of Oui Quebec advocating for sovereignty, envision an independent Quebec that prioritizes inclusivity and unity. They acknowledge the need to improve communication to convey this message effectively.
Shereen Joseph, a proud Malaysian Montrealer, found a sense of belonging in Montreal that Western Canada never provided. Her connection to the city and the French language is profound, yet she questions the language tensions prevalent in the province.
Susan Perera and Allison Saunders, English school board commissioners, view English-language schools not just as educational institutions but also as community hubs fostering bilingualism in Quebec. Both are proud of their Quebec identity, though Saunders sometimes feels that she doesn’t fit the conventional mold of a Quebecer.
These diverse perspectives shed light on the multifaceted nature of Quebec identity, showcasing the intricate tapestry of backgrounds and experiences that contribute to the province’s cultural landscape.