The Evangeline Region: A Welcoming Francophone Community
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News Release: Embracing Francophone Diversity
On May 27, 2019, the Evangeline Region in Prince Edward Island was recognized as a Welcoming Francophone Community. This initiative is part of Canada’s broader Action Plan for Official Languages.
Through this program, 14 communities will receive funding to develop welcoming activities for French-speaking newcomers. This effort, backed by a $12.6 million investment over three years, was highlighted in Budget 2018 to enhance the integration and retention of Francophone immigrants in Canada.
Empowering Francophone Communities through Immigration
The Francophone Immigration Strategy
Introduced on March 13, 2019, the Francophone Immigration Strategy is a collective initiative. It involves federal, provincial, territorial, and community partners working “by and for Francophones” to strengthen the vitality of French-speaking communities through immigration.
The strategy aims to increase the percentage of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec, support newcomer integration, and enhance Francophone community capacity.
Official Statements
“Francophone communities warmly welcome French-speaking newcomers. The Evangeline Region will enhance its hospitality toward Francophone immigrants, offering them opportunities to settle and thrive in Canada. Our commitment through the Francophone Immigration Strategy is to boost the number of French-speaking immigrants in minority communities like Abram-Village and Wellington.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“This selection strengthens our Francophone community, fulfilling workforce and community needs. We invite more Francophones to make PEI their home.”
– Bobby Morrissey, MP for Egmont
“We are thrilled with the Minister’s announcement of the Evangeline Region as a Francophone welcoming community. This dynamic region, rich in Acadian heritage, eagerly awaits the growth and support from new residents.”
– Angie Cormier, Director, La Coopérative d’intégration francophone de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard
Quick Facts on Francophone Immigration
- Francophone Welcoming Communities Initiative
- This pilot project is co-led by IRCC and Francophone groups, including the 13 Réseaux en immigration francophone, the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada (FCFA), and the Comité atlantique sur l’immigration francophone (CAIF).
- Meeting Our Objectives: Francophone Immigration Strategy
- Several initiatives under this strategy have begun, including announcements during National Francophone Immigration Week in November 2018.
- As of December 2018, 4.5% of Express Entry invitations were extended to French-speaking candidates, up from 2.9% in 2017.
Additional Resources
- Meeting Our Objectives: Francophone Immigration Strategy 2018-2023
- Francophone Immigration (Outside Quebec)
- Action Plan for Official Languages – 2018-2023: Investing in Our Future
- Immigration Minister announces key initiatives to promote Francophone immigration
- Federal/Provincial/Territorial Action Plan for Increasing Francophone Immigration Outside Quebec
Media Contacts
Contacts for media only
Mathieu Genest
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs: Francophone Immigration to Canada
What is the Francophone Welcoming Communities initiative?
This is a pilot project designed to support Francophone communities in welcoming and integrating French-speaking newcomers.
How does the Francophone Immigration Strategy benefit newcomers?
It aims to increase French-speaking immigrant numbers outside Quebec, enhance integration, and strengthen community capacities.
Why was the Evangeline Region chosen as a welcoming community?
The region was selected for its dynamic community spirit and commitment to growing its Acadian heritage.
What role do Francophone communities play in this initiative?
They collaborate with IRCC and other stakeholders to create welcoming environments for French-speaking newcomers.
Where can I learn more about Francophone immigration initiatives?
For more details, explore resources such as the Francophone Immigration Strategy and related government publications.
Ready to explore more about Francophone immigration? Read our immigration guide today!
