Quebec: where ‘exemplary’ translates into bad news

Thanks to Bill 96, this simple word means French takes precedence over freedom of speech and the right to vote.

If Anglo Quebecers are refused the partial courtesy of being asked their eligibility for English services at the ballot box, their experience could be used in future challenges to Bill 96, writes Andrew Caddell. Pexels photograph by Element5 Digital

Opinion

BY ANDREW CADDELL

September 30, 2026

MONTREAL—The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the word “exemplary” as “extremely good, outstanding, and worthy of imitation.” Back in 2021, when Bill 96—the changes to the Charter of the French Language—was tabled in the National Assembly, the word was used t...

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