Montreal Seeks Assistance from Quebec on Language Legislation Following Rejection of English Book Club

January 31, 2025 TruthUSA

The City of Montreal is seeking more guidance from the Quebec government on how to apply the province’s language laws, following a local library’s decision to deny space for an English-language book club.

Christopher DiRaddo, creator of the Violet Hour book club, was informed today by the city that he can indeed host his club meetings at the library.

The Père-Ambroise library initially informed DiRaddo that events must be conducted in French only, and city officials stated that his English book discussions could only proceed if simultaneous French translation was provided—an expectation he deemed unreasonable.

After DiRaddo made the situation public, the Quebec government clarified that the province’s language laws did not apply in this scenario, as the book club is not offering public services on behalf of a municipal entity.

While DiRaddo is open to hosting his club gatherings at the library, he expresses concern that the ambiguity of the province’s 2022 language reform could lead to future cancellations of English cultural activities.

The City of Montreal plans to educate its staff on interpreting the language reform correctly, which imposes significant restrictions on English usage in government services and other institutions.