A Study of the Impacts of Language Policies on National Identity in Quebec

Abstract

The province of Quebec has had a long history of tension with the rest of Canada. This tension stems from Quebec’s historic legacy linked to the language, culture, and religion of France in contrast to the English ties of other Canadian provinces. Over the recent decades the provincial government of Quebec has implemented policies that promote and protect the use of the French language within Quebecois territory in order to prevent assimilation into broader Anglo-North American culture. This project examines the relationship between language policy and national identity in Quebec. Specifically, this project explores nationalist sentiment around and since the time of the 1995 Quebec referendum for independence and the role of language policy in influencing nationalistic sentiments among former and current Quebec residents. I ask: {is there a link between policy and identity, especially between the language policies of the province of Quebec and the national identities of Quebec residents?} By analyzing scholarly sources, considering maps, demographic data, popular culture, and interviewing Quebecois individuals, I argue that the language policies implemented by Quebec’s provincial government can and do impact the national identities of individuals. Key Terms: Nation, State, National identity, Language policy, Quebec