Language Rights
For the Francophone settlers of Alberta, French language rights were essential. Although much effort went into trying to maintain bilingualism in provincial government services and communication, not much happened. Schools also lost ground and, for many years, were unable to provide classes in French for those who would prefer it. In relatively recent years, following the repatriation of the Canadian Constitution, it has become possible for Franco-Albertans to regain some of their linguistic and cultural rights.
Language Legislation
In 1891, the Northwest Territories Act of 1875 was amended by the Federal government. The Territories were given the power to pass their own ordinances and control their public expenditures after they had been recommended to the lieutenant-governor. Until 1891, the territories had been officially bilingual.
However, the new settlers, most of them English-speaking, were surprised to find that there were two official languages and some controversy.
- This was very clear when Lieutenant-governor, Joseph Royal, presented his 1877 throne speech in English and French.
- A lobby group began pushing to have English recognized as the Territories' only official language.
- Many of the territorial newspapers rallied around the cause. A strong pro-British sentiment was present at the time.
An 1891 ordinance made English the language of legislation and the courts for the Northwest Territories.
A second blow to the French-speaking population of the West came with ordinance number 22 of 1891-1892.
- English would be the only language of instruction in the schools.
- The ordinance reversed the accord of 1888, which permitted bilingual education.
After 1891, all education was to be in English. The committee could however permit French language education in the primary grades.
