Montreal, October 10, 2025 – The Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA) expresses profound concern over the tabling of Bill 1, legislation that flagrantly threatens the rights of the English-speaking minority in Quebec, deepens societal instability and imposes a one-size-fits-all vision on a vibrant and diverse province, yet another stark example of this government ignoring the real challenges facing its citizens and communities across Quebec.
The Bill seeks to override constitutional protections under Section 23, undermining the fundamental rights of Quebec’s English-speaking community to access education in their language. QESBA views this measure as a direct attack on minority-language education, a threat to diversity, and a step backward for social cohesion and mutual respect among Quebecers.
“Once again, the government has chosen to disregard the constitutional rights of the English-speaking minority, pursuing policies that will deepen divisions within Quebec society,” said Joe Ortona President of QESBA. “Bill 1 is another reminder that this government is prioritizing politics over people, and communities are paying the price,” concluded the President.
QESBA calls on all elected officials to recognize the harm Bill 1 will cause and to engage meaningfully with every community to address real issues. The association reaffirms its commitment to defending the rights of English-speaking students, supporting our educators, and promoting a more inclusive, respectful, and united Quebec society.
QESBA is the voice of English public education in Québec and represents 100,000 students in over 300 elementary, high schools, and adult and vocational centres across Québec.
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