Quebec’s commitment to promoting the French language is one that many newcomers share—but the current implementation of francisation policies is falling short of creating real opportunities for language learning. Refugees and immigrants want to integrate and participate in Quebec society in French, yet delays in accessing French classes and unrealistic timelines mandated by Bill 96 create significant barriers. The current six-month requirement to operate in French after arrival is not only unattainable for many—it directly contradicts the reality of long wait times, with some newcomers waiting up to seven months to begin classes.

This campaign calls on the Quebec government and Minister Jean-François Roberge to make French learning more accessible and equitable. We are urging the province to extend the timeframe for francisation expectations, increase the number of available course sessions by hiring more instructors, and significantly boost funding for community organizations—especially those not officially partnered with the MIFI—who are already filling critical gaps in language access. The desire to learn French is strong; the supports to make that possible must be just as strong. Francisation cannot succeed if those who wish to learn are stuck waiting in line.

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