Mr. Speaker, on June 24, Quebeckers celebrate Quebec's national holiday. This annual holiday has been celebrated for 183 years and symbolizes the great pride of a people whose language and culture continue to enrich Canada's social fabric.
It also symbolizes the great openness and inclusiveness of the Quebec society that we know today. Indeed, 40 years ago, this day, which was once earmarked to celebrate Saint-Jean-Baptiste, was declared the national holiday of all Quebeckers regardless of their origins or beliefs.
Whether we were born into it or chose to be part of it, Quebec's culture enriches us all. Let us celebrate it. Happy national holiday.