As with most things in Quebec, the language dynamics are complex. According to the most recent census, there are 8,500 anglophones working in arts and culture in Quebec. The percentage of artists among the Quebec English-speaking minority, almost 1%, is significantly higher than the national average of 0.65%. This is good news. Within 25 years a dramatic process of renewal has taken place. Unfortunately, increased vitality in the English-speaking community is invariably viewed by some in Quebec as a threat to the French language and culture.
The international juggernaut of English language business, politics, and Hollywood entertainment needs to be distinguished from the work of local artists. ELAN has worked very hard to link the visibility of English language artists to the benefits for the larger community. In March 2011, when Arcade Fire won a Grammy and said “Merci, Montréal!”, everybody noticed and wanted to share the glory of it all. Quebec's National Assembly passed a unanimous motion recognizing the contribution of artists, francophone and anglophone, in promoting Quebec culture.
In a recent QCGN priority-setting conference, the main story reported in the Montreal Gazette was that “Anglophone artists bridge linguistic divide”. The report referred to many success stories in the realm of arts and culture, but also noticed that the francophone media in recent months have been filled with stories about the troubling resurgence of English language in Quebec. This month's article in L'actualité is the most alarmist declaration to date. It is a reminder that no matter how bilingual anglophones become, someone will always question whether we play a positive role in Quebec society.
At a political and policy level, there's only one official language in Quebec, and it's not English. This fact complicates our relationship with the Government of Quebec and corporations and presents numerous challenges for English language artists.
What is the future for English language arts and culture in Quebec? The complex linguistic situation in Quebec makes support from Quebec City unpredictable and unreliable, at least in the near future. Therefore, federal support is vital, and the Cultural Development Fund has been immensely beneficial. A significant renewed investment in the Cultural Development Fund during the next five-year plan will have an immeasurably positive impact on minority official language communities.
Thank you, and we'll be happy to answer questions.