Mr. Speaker, Quebecers will be celebrating the fête nationale du Québec on June 24.
For centuries, we have been celebrating the summer solstice with bonfires. In 1834, the newspaper editor Ludger Duvernay organized the first celebration symbolizing the struggle of French Canadians to survive. Over the years, this celebration has become an opportunity for Quebecers to show their determination to create a country for themselves.
Proclaimed fête nationale du Québec in 1977, June 24 has become a day for all inhabitants of Quebec.
This year, Quebecers are invited to celebrate their sense of community at over 700 sites throughout Quebec. Next year, if such is the wish of the people, we will be celebrating our country, our Quebec, on that day.