Contemporary Franco-Albertan Culture
For a time, it looked as if Francophone culture in the west might be lost. French language was less visible, and there was loss of language rights. But the communities and groups were determined to keep the Francophone heritage. This meant that the strength of the Alberta Francophone began to grow again. Now we see vital and active communities with a rich French heritage. The communities may have begun with the heritage of the coureur de bois, Métis, and French Canadian settlers. In recent years, the Franco-Albertan community has grown with the addition of new people from the international Francophone community. Alberta welcomes additional citizens who have come from France and the former French colonies around the world. These citizens share the wealth of their culture and preserve their language and faiths.