Francophone Discoveries Communities

Ontario

Features

In 2021, there were 582,695 Francophones and more than 1.5 million bilingual people in Ontario. The French presence in Ontario officially dates back to August 1, 1615, when Champlain met the Huron-Wendaat chief at Toanché (now Penetanguishene). The Franco‑Ontarian flag was hoisted for the first time in front of the University of Sudbury on September 25, 1975.

Organization representing the Francophone population

As the representative and political voice of more than 700,000 Franco-Ontarians, the Assemblée de la francophonie de l’Ontario (the Assemblée) must remain relevant and in tune with the Franco-Ontarian community. Franco-Ontarians make up the largest Francophone population in any North American jurisdiction outside of Quebec, and can be found in every part of the province. Given the diversity and distribution of the Franco-Ontarian community, as well as the geography of the province, the Assemblée’s job is as complex as it is fascinating, namely, to represent the different realities of each community and provide a strong and united voice.

Immigration

Three Francophone immigration support networks are tasked with connecting, consulting and coordinating with the province’s many service providers and other Francophone immigration partners, namely, those of East, North and Central-South-West Ontario. The Conseil économique et social d’Ottawa-Carleton is another organization that promotes diversity and fosters the reception and settlement of Francophone immigrants. Many programs and activities are offered to promote the socioeconomic development of Francophone immigrants and support them in their plans to settle in Ontario.

Tourism

Éducation en langue française en Ontario shares and promotes Francophone culture and provides a unique experience for those who attend its schools. The province’s 12 French-language school boards serve over 105,600 students.

It is also possible to pursue post-secondary education in French in Ontario. The University of Ottawa is the largest bilingual university in Canada, and 30% of its student body is Francophone. The University of French Ontario is an innovative French-language institution that offers specialized programs to Francophones in Toronto.

Education

Éducation en langue française en Ontario (ELF) shares and promotes Francophone culture and provides a unique experience for those who attend its schools. Ontario has 12 Francophone school boards serving more than 105,600 students.