Quebec Minister Jean-François Roberge has announced the discontinuation of gender-inclusive writing in public government communications. Roberge expressed concerns about confusion arising from the lack of specific guidelines, leading to challenges in maintaining proper French grammar. As a result, ministries, governmental bodies, and municipalities are instructed to avoid using gender-neutral terms like “iel,” “toustes,” “celleux,” “mix,” and “froeur,” along with abbreviated doublets such as “les étudiante.es,” “les agent•e•s,” and “l’administrateur/trice.”
Inclusive writing, aimed at encompassing all gender identities and avoiding favoring masculine forms, has been a common practice. Roberge emphasized the importance of not excluding individuals who prefer pronouns like “iel” and acknowledged the fluidity of gender identities, affirming a commitment to inclusivity and openness.
However, Victoria Legault, the executive director of Aide aux Trans du Québec, criticized Roberge’s decision, suggesting that it marginalizes individuals using the pronoun “iel” and diverts attention from pressing issues. Legault emphasized the necessity for improved dialogue between 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and the Quebec government to address concerns effectively and prevent further challenges faced by these communities.
The government’s decision aligns with recommendations from the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF) to establish consistency and coherence in government communications. Roberge highlighted the need for uniformity in linguistic practices across organizations and officials to maintain clarity. The forthcoming stages of these linguistic changes will extend to the education and healthcare sectors.
Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon supported the policy shift, asserting the government’s prerogative to adjust language practices. However, he emphasized the necessity for open debate before altering French language conventions, cautioning against unilateral decisions that could impact linguistic traditions.
