Ottawa – Mayor Jim Watson and 180 members of the Francophone community, this morning gathered to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the passage of Samuel de Champlain as well as the Francophone presence in the Ottawa region during the 8th Annual Francophone Rendezvous with the Mayor at Ottawa City Hall.
Mayor Watson expressed his enthusiasm about Champlain’s voyage, and the significance it played for both the Algonquin peoples and the Francophone culture in the New World.
“Samuel de Champlain not only founded Quebec City,” said Mayor Watson, “he also influenced the French colonies within New France by creating a rich Francophone society that we experience here today.”
Nicole Fortier, President of the Société franco-ontarienne du patrimoine et de l'histoire d'Orléans (SFOPHO), served as Master of Ceremonies. She welcomed many special guests including members of the 400th Anniversary coordinating committee for the Ottawa region, as well as political and community leaders.
Guests were treated to a lively narrative by Mr. Félix Saint-Denis, Creator and Artistic Director and Producer of Echo d’un peuple Shows and talented storyteller. He spoke about Samuel de Champlain’s first contacts with the Algonquin Anishinabe and Étienne Brulé 400 years ago, as well as some of the great voyage adventures.
Celebrations of the 400th anniversary of the passage of Samuel de Champlain will continue on both sides of the river throughout the year. Ottawa-area festivities will close during a gala organized by the Orléans Festival Committee on September 27, 2014.
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