In celebration of Franco-Ontarian Day on Sept. 25, the City of Welland recognizes and acknowledges Niagara’s Francophone population and will raise the Franco-Ontarian flag at City Hall on Sept. 24. at 11 a.m.

The City of Welland, with a community that is 11 per cent French-speaking, is one of Ontario’s 26 designated Francophone communities.

“It is the people who make up our community and what Welland embodies, and the Francophone community in Welland is a vital piece of who we are,” said Mayor Frank Campion. “I am proud to raise the Franco-Ontarian flag in recognition and support of our French-Canadian community here in Welland.”

Visiting Discover Welland — Decouvrir on the City’s website allows visitors a French-language section rich with information on the best places to see and visit in the City as well as highlight Welland’s attractions, history of Francophone culture, sister city Sorel-Tracy in Quebec, and relevant links to related news and resources.

The City of Wellandn continues to strengthen partnerships with organizations such as Francophone Employment and Resource Centre (CERF-Niagara), Centre de Santé Communautaire, Foyer Richelieu Welland, l’Auberge Richelieu Welland, Collége Boréal, and Paroisse Sacré-Cœur. These organizations are vital in supporting Welland’s French-speaking families.

Minister of Francophone Affairs, the Honourable Caroline Mulroney, also wrote a letter of support to the City of Welland for advancing the Francophone community’s many contributions to the City and the province.