Quebec Language watchdog Softens Stance on English Word “Go”
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The Office Québécois de la Langue Française (OQLF), Quebec’s language authority, has revised its position on the use of the English word “go” in promotional and encouragement contexts. This shift comes after the agency initially expressed concerns about the use of English terms by public organizations, emphasizing the need for exemplary French language usage.
The Evolution of “Go” in Quebec’s Linguistic Landscape
Dominique Malack, president of the French language office, acknowledged in April that the slogan “Go Habs Go” holds past significance in Quebec. However, she initially pointed out that “go” is an anglicism and that public bodies should prioritize using exclusively French words in their communications.
Emails obtained by the Canadian Press reveal that the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) sought authorization from the OQLF to use “GO” following public debate in May. On June 6, the OQLF directed the STM to a new entry in its online terminological dictionary, which serves as a reference for proper French usage in quebec.
The updated dictionary entry notes that the use of “Go” as an anglicism in Quebec dates back to at least the 1980s and is “well established” in everyday language. The entry states that it is now “partially legitimized.”
Did You No? According to a 2023 study by the Pew Research Centre, 89% of Canadians believe it is vital to preserve their national cultures and languages in the face of globalization [1].
OQLF spokesperson Gilles Payer confirmed that the agency has updated its stance. “The Office now considers that an governance organization can use the ‘GO’ interjection in a context of encouragement without compromising the duty of exemplarity,” Payer stated in an email to the Canadian Press.
The updated entry was published on May 30. “The media coverage of the file relating to the use of the LO loan in a sporting context has led the Office to officially assess acceptability” of the word, he added.
Debate and Discomfort Surrounding the Change
French literature professor Mr. Melançon suggests that the phrase “partially legitimized” indicates the OQLF’s unease with this change. He believes this decision likely sparked important internal discussions within the agency.
One manager at a public transport company questioned the initial complaint, which involved a bus displaying “Go! See MTL, Go!” in support of Montreal’s professional soccer club. She described the situation as a “gray zone” in an email to colleagues in June 2024.
“We have been using the word Go without problem for years,” she wrote. “Do we change everything as of a complaint?”
despite initial reservations, the company decided to remove the word “Go” later that month, requiring a manual update of the displays on over 1,000 buses, a process that took several months. The STM confirmed that no further changes would be made until the buses’ regular maintenance in the fall.
Past Complaints and the “Go Habs Go” Slogan
The OQLF has received at least two other complaints regarding the use of “Go” in the past five years. In 2023, a complaint about the “Go Habs Go” slogan on an outdoor display panel was rejected because the expression is a trademark.
A similar complaint in 2021 targeted the hashtag #gohabsgo, displayed in large letters outside the Bell Centre, home of the Montreal Canadiens. The complainant suggested adding the French equivalent, “Come on the inhabitants, come on,” in larger letters to comply with quebec’s language laws.
the OQLF stated that this complaint was resolved following an intervention, but details were not provided. A spokesperson for the hockey team declined to comment. The #gohabsgo panel remains in place.
Timeline of the “Go” Debate
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April | OQLF President acknowledges “Go Habs Go” but flags “Go” as anglicism. |
| May | STM requests OQLF authorization to use “GO”. |
| May 30 | OQLF publishes updated dictionary entry, “partially legitimizing” “Go”. |
| June 6 | OQLF directs STM to the updated dictionary entry. |
pro Tip: When navigating language debates, consider the historical context and cultural significance of words and phrases.
this evolving situation highlights the ongoing tensions between preserving the French language in Quebec and the practical realities of language use in a globalized world. The OQLF’s decision reflects a nuanced approach, acknowledging the established use of “Go” while still emphasizing the importance of French language primacy.
What impact do you think this decision will have on the use of English words in Quebec? How can Quebec balance language preservation with the realities of a multilingual society?
Evergreen Insights: The Broader Context of Language Policy in Quebec
Quebec’s language policies have a long and complex history, rooted in the province’s efforts to protect and promote the French language in a predominantly English-speaking North America. The Charter of the French Language, also known as bill 101, is a cornerstone of these policies, mandating the use of French in various aspects of public life, including education, commerce, and government. These policies have been both praised for preserving French culture and criticized for restricting linguistic freedom.
The debate over the use of English words like “Go” is just one example of the ongoing tensions surrounding language in Quebec. As the province continues to evolve, it faces the challenge of balancing its commitment to protecting the French language with the realities of a globalized and multilingual world.The OQLF’s evolving stance on “Go” reflects this complex balancing act, demonstrating a willingness to adapt to changing linguistic landscapes while still upholding the principles of the charter of the French Language.
Frequently asked Questions About the “Go” Debate in Quebec
- Why did the OQLF initially object to the use of “Go”?
- The OQLF initially objected to the use of “Go” because it is an English word (an anglicism), and the agency prioritizes the use of French in public communications to uphold the Charter of the French Language.
- What prompted the OQLF to change its position on “Go”?
- The OQLF changed its position after public debate and a request from the STM. The agency also recognized that “Go” has been used in Quebec as the 1980s and is “well established” in everyday language.
- What does it mean that “Go” is now “partially legitimized”?
- “partially legitimized” suggests that the OQLF acknowledges the common use of “Go” but still prefers the use of French equivalents when possible. It indicates a compromise between strict adherence to french language rules and practical language use.
- How does the “Go” debate relate to Quebec’s broader language policies?
- The “Go” debate is an example of the ongoing tensions between preserving the French language in quebec and the realities of a multilingual society. It highlights the challenges of balancing language protection with linguistic freedom and global communication.
- What is the Charter of the French Language (Bill 101)?
- The Charter of the French Language is a Quebec law that mandates the use of French in various aspects of public life, including education, commerce, and government. It is a key piece of legislation aimed at protecting and promoting the French language in Quebec.
- Has the OQLF faced similar complaints about English words before?
- Yes, the OQLF has received complaints about the use of English words, including the “Go Habs Go” slogan and the hashtag #gohabsgo. These complaints reflect the ongoing debate about the appropriate use of English in Quebec.
Share your thoughts on this evolving language debate! What are your experiences with language policies in multilingual regions?
