Celebrating Official Languages Day

In the Northwest Territories, linguistic diversity is exceptional: there are 11 official languages, nine of which are Indigenous. This diversity reflects a living cultural heritage, complemented by French and English, Canada’s two official languages.

Each year, Official Languages Day reminds us of the importance of bilingualism in this Northern context. On September 11, we celebrate not only the vitality of French and English, but also their complementary role alongside other languages in strengthening communities and fostering inclusion.

At Collège Nordique, we know that learning and practicing French and English opens doors both personally and professionally. Canada’s two official languages are more than tools for communication: they foster unity, inclusion, and access to new opportunities for students and professionals alike.

In a territory where geographical and cultural realities bring unique challenges, bilingual training and linguistic support directly strengthen social cohesion and help integrate newcomers. This is precisely the role of our LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) and CLIC (Cours de langue pour les immigrants au Canada) programs, which provide newcomers with English and French courses tailored to their needs. These programs not only ease community integration but also enhance employability and full participation in Northern life.

On this occasion, let us also recall that on September 11, 2025, the Government of Canada, through the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), announced an investment of up to $1.05 million to support several Francophone organizations across the territories, including Collège Nordique. This support aims to stimulate economic growth, attract a Francophone workforce, and improve access to services in both French and English. This funding is part of the Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration and further strengthens the commitment to linguistic duality and the vitality of Northern communities.

This Day is therefore a wonderful opportunity to:

• highlight the importance of bilingualism for Northern Francophonie and local communities;
• encourage everyone to continue their linguistic journey, whether in French, English, or an Indigenous language;
• showcase the resources and training available to develop language skills.

Together, let’s celebrate Canada’s official languages as a driver of unity and influence, and as a concrete tool to build stronger, more inclusive, and more open communities.