Mr. Speaker, western Canada's first educational institution was founded 200 years ago. Known then as Collège de Saint-Boniface, its rich history is a testament to the important role it has played in protecting and promoting the French language in Manitoba.
As a private institution, the college defied the Thornton Act prohibition on French as a language of instruction for over 50 years.
Many eminent members of the Canadian francophonie studied at the college, including Louis Riel.
Now officially known as the Université de Saint-Boniface, USB is still the only French-language university in western Canada, and it welcomes students from around the world.
A big celebration will be held on Thursday, November 8, to honour our francophone institution.
Enjoy the celebration, and long live the Université de Saint-Boniface!