Iqaluit: A Welcoming Francophone Community
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
March 18, 2019 — Iqaluit, NU — Iqaluit is now recognized as a Welcoming Francophone Community as part of Canada’s Action Plan for Official Languages.
Enhancing Francophone Immigration
The Welcoming Francophone Communities initiative is part of a $12.6 million plan over three years, aiming to create supportive environments for French-speaking newcomers in 14 Canadian communities. This initiative was introduced in Budget 2018 to enhance the integration and retention of Francophone immigrants.
The Francophone Immigration Strategy, announced on March 13, 2019, represents a collaborative effort with various partners to revitalize Francophone minority communities through immigration. This strategy focuses on increasing the number of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec and enhancing community capacity to welcome newcomers.
Voices from the Community
“Francophone communities open their hearts to French-speaking newcomers. Iqaluit will offer even more opportunities for Francophone immigrants to feel at home in Canada. Our commitment to increasing French-speaking immigrants in minority communities is unwavering.” – The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship
“Nunavut’s Francophone community is proud and diverse, welcoming newcomers with services in immigration, employment, and more, enriching the territory with cultural programs.” – Michel Rheault, Vice President, Association des francophones du Nunavut
“Francophone immigration fosters a diverse community where everyone belongs. The Welcoming Communities Initiative strengthens relationships, and we are optimistic that the new national strategy will surpass immigration targets.” – Jean Johnson, President, Fédération des communautés francophones et acadiennes du Canada (FCFA)
Key Facts
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Francophone Welcoming Communities initiative
- This pilot project is co-led by IRCC and Francophone communities, involving Réseaux en immigration francophone and other key organizations.
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Meeting Our Objectives: Francophone Immigration Strategy
- Several initiatives are underway, including those announced during National Francophone Immigration Week in November 2018.
- By December 2018, 4.5% of Express Entry invitations were extended to French-speaking candidates, up from 2.9% in 2017.
Related 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 from pre-arrival to citizenship
- Federal/Provincial/Territorial Action Plan for Increasing Francophone Immigration Outside of Quebec
Contact Information
For media inquiries 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
FAQ
What is the purpose of the Francophone Welcoming Communities initiative?
This initiative aims to support French-speaking newcomers by creating welcoming environments in minority Francophone communities across Canada.
How does the Francophone Immigration Strategy benefit newcomers?
The strategy enhances community support, increases the number of French-speaking immigrants, and fosters a sense of belonging outside Quebec.
Which organizations are involved in the initiative?
The initiative is co-led by IRCC and includes organizations like Réseaux en immigration francophone and the FCFA.
How has the strategy impacted Express Entry invitations?
By December 2018, 4.5% of invitations were issued to French-speaking candidates, showing an increase from the previous year.
For more comprehensive insights, Read our immigration guide.
