
Letters: CAQ doesn't grasp the immigrant experience
There seems to be a complete lack of understanding in the Coalition Avenir Québec government about immigrants to Quebec and the need to maintain their mother tongues and cultures at home.
This makes the transition much easier, just as it did for previous newcomers. It is a natural and normal dynamic among immigrants.
It's so sad the government appears to have no sense of the immigrant experience.
Gerry Raven, Hampstead
Integration bill is beyond the pale
Is it possible that Bill 84, the 'act respecting national integration,' was named in honour of George Orwell's dystopian novel 1984, or is it too much of a stretch to imagine that Immigration, Francization and Integration Minister Jean-François Roberge deigns to read anything conceived in English?
Perhaps he is a devotee of the Borg in Star Trek, trying to assimilate the entire population of Quebec.
Whatever the reason, this bill is an abomination.
Rhonda Shechtman, Côte-St-Luc
Let Supreme Court decide on school boards
Re: ' Legault government pushes school board dispute to Supreme Court ' (The Gazette, June 1); ' Legault government has learned nothing by taking school board bill to Supreme Court ' (Allison Hanes, June 3)
The Quebec English School Boards Association said it is deeply disappointed by the Legault government's decision to appeal the Bill 40 ruling to the Supreme Court of Canada, a move that columnist Allison Hanes noted 'has demonstrated the depth of its contempt for the rights of English-speaking Quebecers.'
The QESBA and Hanes should welcome the decision.
Should the Supreme Court agree to hear the case, it presents an impactful opportunity to uphold the principles of justice and equality and strengthen everyone's rights within Quebec's public school system. It would examine all perspectives and promote a fair resolution.
The Supreme Court holds the ultimate authority to clarify essential constitutional questions that could establish legal precedents to benefit other minority-language groups in Canada.
Chris Eustace, Pierrefonds
Nunavik students learn priceless lessons
Re: ' Trip of a lifetime for Nunavik students who 'deserve the world' ' (Extra, May 31)
It's not every day you read a delightful story that leaves you smiling and inspired.
Young students from Nunavik earned their way to visit Montreal through commitment, effort and the pride that comes from working toward something meaningful. Their reward wasn't just a fun trip. They also gained an expanded world view, increased confidence and the knowledge that dreams grow stronger with every step toward them.
It shows education is about more than tests and textbooks. It's about building character, creating opportunity and helping young people discover they have a place in our world. What their teachers did is a powerful reminder we should teach values with transformative experiences that will echo throughout their lives.
It's a model for motivating and empowering our youth. We need more of these inspirational opportunities for students that put a spotlight on growth, hope and achievement. This is what community-building and support look like and what education should always strive for.
To the organizers: Bravo. To the students: Keep shining.

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