Plenary Assembly as part of the Grand Rassemblement Jeunesse 2009

The main objectives of the Grand Rassemblement Jeunesse are to facilitate the exchange and dialogue between young francophones from different backgrounds, to permit them to reflect upon their future and to reinforce the importance of the French language. Ms. Françoise Enguehard, President of the Société Nationale de l’Acadie addressed a group of 40 young leaders gathered at the polyvalente W.A. Losier before they participated in the first day of workshops.

The first session focused on identity and Her Excellency outlined that the discussion that was about to take place with the young participants would continue throughout their lives: “Because identity never stops evolving, changing with every new experience and person we meet, every new membership gained and where we choose to settle down.”

Many participants spoke about the challenges they face creating an identity, as a francophone that is part of a minority.

Most of the participants are from the Atlantic provinces but young francophones from elsewhere in Canada, as well as from France, Belgium, Africa and Louisiana are also taking part in the event.

The governor general listened carefully to the young Acadians who explained their perception on the role that they play in the history of Acadia and the role that they would like to play.