The silence of Francophone family physicians or unilateral bilingualism?

Dr Roger Ladouceur’s question is pertinent.¹

Our Canadian Anglophone colleagues (scholars, teachers, clinicians) have never really participated in workshops or presentations conducted in French, even when interpretation is provided. Why? That is the question we should be asking them. Unfortunately, that means Family Medicine Forum does not provide pan-Canadian exposure to Francophone physicians presenting in their native language.

And it is not the Quebec chapter (Collège québécois des médecins de famille) that can change that.

Will this ever change? Sadly, no.

For successful change to occur, it must be motivated by the belief that it is needed. Yes, there is a wealth of experience and expertise being shared in French. But do our Anglophone colleagues really feel the need to pay attention or put in the necessary effort? Human beings prefer to remain in their own comfort zones.

Communication is always easier in our native language, no matter who we are.

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