On February 22nd, the City of Toronto proclaimed Language Advocacy Day for the second consecutive year. This event marks a significant achievement in our continuous efforts to enhance access to language services for individuals who speak non-official languages.
This proclamation, requested by the Language Access Coalition of Canada, highlights the critical need for linguistic accessibility. It addresses the significant barriers that many residents face in accessing essential services such as healthcare, social assistance, and justice.
On Language Access Day, we celebrate the rich linguistic diversity that is found in our city and which contributes to the City’s motto: Diversity Our Strength.
Why Language Advocacy Day Matters
In Toronto, 42.5% of residents have a mother tongue other than French or English and 4.5% lack knowledge of both official languages. These statistics highlight the urgent need for policies that ensure everyone, regardless of their linguistic background, can access vital services.
As one of the world's most multicultural and multilingual cities, Language Advocacy Day in Toronto is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a call to action.
The City of Toronto, through its Multilingual Information Provisions Policy, remains committed to improving engagement with residents while fostering inclusion for groups and organizations by providing information and services in a variety of languages that reflect the city’s diversity.
Key Policy Recommendations
The LACC has outlined several key policy recommendations to improve language accessibility in Canada:
Proclaim February 22nd as the Day of Language Access: This initiative will help raise awareness about the importance of linguistic accessibility.
Introduce an “active offer” of language services in public service settings: This includes healthcare, to reflect local and regional linguistic diversity.
Mandate the display of “Language Services Available” posters: Featuring the National Interpreter Symbol in all public offices.
Require certified American Sign Language (ASL) and Langue des Signes Québécoise (LSQ) translations: For public announcements.
Allocate increased resources for Indigenous language education and revitalization: Supporting the preservation and growth of Indigenous languages.
Want to advocate with us? Contact your Federal MP and Provincial MPP to make your voice heard through our Action Button links. Let’s ensure language access is recognized as a fundamental right for all Canadians.
The Impact of Language Advocacy Day
By proclaiming February 22nd as Language Advocacy Day, Toronto is taking a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible city!
This proclamation will not only highlight the importance of language access but also boost the efforts of our coalition to make Toronto a more welcoming place for all residents.
Let’s rally together, Greater Toronto Area! This is our chance to keep advocating and unite in making Ontario a more accessible and welcoming place for everyone!
Join Us in Celebrating
We invite everyone to join us in celebrating Language Advocacy Day on February 22nd.
Together, we can work towards a future where language is no longer a barrier to accessing essential services.
Let's continue to advocate for policies that promote linguistic accessibility and ensure that every resident of Toronto can fully participate in our vibrant community!
WHEREAS today on Language Advocacy Day we recognize the importance of linguistic accessibility and raise awareness about significant language barriers to essential services for people who speak non-official languages.
For more information, please visit the City of Toronto Proclamations 2025 page
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