By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
March is a time to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Francophone communities, as the Municipality of Lakeshore joins in the global celebration of La Francophonie, a month-long event that acknowledges the linguistic and cultural diversity of French-speaking communities worldwide.
In the Municipality of Lakeshore, La Francophonie month holds a special place, not just for those whose first language is French, but for the broader community. From Stoney Point to Lakeshore and the Village of Comber, residents take pride in their French-Canadian roots and the contributions of French-speaking individuals to the fabric of their communities.
“Being part of the Francophone community means keeping our culture alive, and it’s something we treasure, especially here in Stoney Point,” says Marie Lavoie, a long-time resident of the area.
“Francophonie month is a chance to share our stories, to celebrate our language, and remind everyone of the beautiful blend of French and Indigenous cultures that exist right here.”
Stoney Point, located in the southwestern part of the Municipality of Lakeshore, has a deep historical connection to French-Canadian heritage. As one of the earliest French settlements in the region, the community continues to preserve French traditions in language, art, and cuisine. Lavoie, who is active in local educational outreach, speaks of the importance of teaching younger generations about the significance of La Francophonie.
“Through programs in our schools and cultural exchanges, we can bring attention to the importance of preserving these traditions,” Lavoie explains. “It’s about embracing both our history and our future.”
In the Municipality of Lakeshore, a town known for its diverse population, La Francophonie month is marked by various events, including French-language workshops, art shows, and performances.
For Jean-Philippe Dupont, a Lakeshore resident and Francophone advocate, the month serves as an opportunity to increase awareness of French language and culture in an area where many residents speak English as their first language.
“We’re so lucky to live in a place where people from different backgrounds come together. La Francophonie month gives us the chance to highlight the contributions of the Francophone community, not only to Canadian culture but to the broader global culture,” Dupont says.
“I’m always impressed by the diversity of events we see here, from film screenings to local French-speaking artists showcasing their work. It’s great to witness the celebration of this culture.”
While events and performances are part of the month’s celebrations, much of the emphasis in the Municipality of Lakeshore is placed on education.
In the Village of Comber, a small community with a rich French-Canadian history, local schools engage students with cultural lessons, language activities, and interactive exhibits focused on Francophone achievements.
“Comber has always had a strong connection to French settlers, and that history is still part of the community,” says school teacher André Tremblay. “Our students get a hands-on experience during La Francophonie month—whether it’s performing French songs, learning about historical figures, or simply practicing French-speaking skills in the classroom. It’s about passing on knowledge and fostering pride in our cultural heritage.”
Tremblay acknowledges that the roots of Francophone culture in the Municipality of Lakeshore extend beyond just the French language. The region’s role in the broader story of Canada’s French heritage is immense, and La Francophonie month helps reconnect generations to that story.
Throughout the Municipality of Lakeshore, La Francophonie month is a time of connection. It encourages local communities to come together in the spirit of cultural exchange and recognition. As Lavoie, Dupont, and Tremblay note, it is essential that communities continue to preserve and celebrate their Francophone heritage while engaging with the broader society in a spirit of inclusivity and respect.
“This month is not just about honoring our language but also about educating others,” Dupont concludes. “When we celebrate La Francophonie, we celebrate the diversity of our province and the world.”
As March draws to a close, the Municipality of Lakeshore’s communities continue to reflect on the importance of La Francophonie, recognizing the lasting impact French-speaking Canadians have had and continue to have on the country’s cultural landscape.
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