Mary Simon responds to criticism of her French

Photo: Dustin Patar The Canadian Press Governor General of Canada Mary Simon in April

The Canadian Press in Ottawa

Posted September 27

• Canada

Canada’s Governor General Mary Simon responded Thursday evening to criticism of her ability to speak French, a few days after her visit to the Quebec City region.

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After strong reactions in Ottawa earlier this week, Ms. Simon’s office announced Wednesday morning that she had had to cancel a visit to a community organization where she was expected.

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In a statement released by the Office of the Governor General of Canada, Mary Simon responded to the reactions she received during her visit to Quebec regarding her inability to speak French.

“As a Canadian and a Quebecer, I understand very well the critical relationship between identity, culture and language,” she wrote. “That is why speaking my mother tongue, Inuktitut, is an integral part of my identity.”

“Although I am fluent in Inuktitut and English, I was unable to speak French.”

She added that she understands the importance of French for French-speaking Canadians and that “it is an essential part of their culture and identity.” »

“That is one of the reasons why, when I took office as Governor General, I committed to learning French and continuing to practice, in order to improve and use all three languages.”

She also indicated her desire to remain true to what she said in her installation speech, namely that she would strive to “build bridges between the diverse backgrounds and cultures that reflect the unique and promising character of our great country.”