That Ottawa, Charest at odds on ‘Québécois’ meaning is the lesser of the problems arising from the motion passed November 27th with all party support in the House of Commons. By far the greater problem is headlines in both the Canadian and international media that the motion recognized Quebec as a nation.

It is unfortunate there is confusion over whether the Québécois nation consists of all the residents of Quebec or the descendants of those who chose to stay rather than return to France in 1760’s. While unfortunate, this is not unexpected. Unfortunate, however, is the widespread statement that Quebec as a nation (a political-nation) rather than the Québécois (a cultural-nation) was the substance of the motion.

A review of headlines clearly indicates the media focus has largely been on Quebec rather Québécois, creating reactions by many who have been misled. It is to be hoped that the intent of the resolution be made clear: that of recognizing Les Québécois as a community of Canadians with unique historical roots rather than the inhabitants of a political land.

Joe Hueglin
Niagara Falls, Ontario