NDP marks 50th anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian flag

QUEEN’S PARK – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles, Shadow Minister for Francophone Affairs France Gélinas (Nickel Belt), Guy Bourgouin (Mushkegowuk–James Bay), and Jamie West (Sudbury), have released the following statement to mark the 50th anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian flag:

“Today we proudly celebrate 50 years of the Franco-Ontarian flag. This flag is a symbol of pride, resilience, and belonging for Franco-Ontarians across Ontario,” said Stiles. “The green and white, with its trillium and fleur-de-lis, represents the immense strength of a community that has helped build this province and continues to enrich every part of it.”

“The Franco-Ontarian flag was created in Sudbury. Here in the North, it is a proud part of our legacy,” said West. “It’s a reminder of who we are, and of the incredible contributions of Franco-Ontarians to our province. Celebrating 50 years is not only about honouring our past, but also about building a stronger future.”

“This anniversary is personal for me, and so many of us,” said Gélinas. “The Franco-Ontarian flag carries our history, our pride, and our determination to ensure French-language services are available in health care, education, and services, and are protected for generations to come.”

“As a proud Franco-Ontarian, this flag has always been more than a symbol,” said Bourgouin. "It represents the resilience of our culture, our communities, and our solidarity. Franco-Ontarians have worked for generations to preserve their culture and constitutional rights in our province. Today marks a moment of pride.”

“New Democrats are proud to stand with Franco-Ontarians today and always,” concluded Stiles.