Quebec Distinct Society Essay - 1486 Words

Quebec: A Distinct Society (?) The concept of recognizing Quebec as a distinct society is an idea that has been kicking around for some time, but just what does it mean and what are its broader implications? This paper will examine the origins of the term, what it means, and its historical context. It will then examine rival interpretations of federalism. The essay will conclude with an in-depth examination of the concepts involvement with the failed constitutional accords and the failed Quebec succession attempts. The term distinct society was a political notion used during constitutional debates during the Meech Lake accord and the Charlottetown accord. Its meaning is somewhat vague and controversial. In essence, it refers to†¦show more content†¦The 6 ex MPs along with Jean Lappierre (who had just left the Liberal Party) formed the Bloc Quebecois. Quebec Separation 1980,1995 In 1980 The PQ government called a referendum asking weather Quebec should have a new agreement with the rest of Canada. The No side won by a slim margin. In response to the referendum Pierre Trudeau promised to reform the Constitution. Do you want a new agreement with the rest of Canada, based on the equality of nations? That was the heart of the question placed before the people of Quebec in the May 20, 1980 referendum. Renà © Là ©vesques Parti Quà ©bà ©cois was asking Quebecers for a mandate to negotiate sovereignty-association, an idea that inflamed federalists and separatists alike. In 1995 the PQ Government led by Parizeau again flirted with the idea of sovereignty association. The No side squeaked out a marginal victory. À la prochaine fois! (Until next time!) promised Renà © Là ©vesque after the 1980 Quebec referendum. Fifteen years later, on Oct. 30, 1995, Quebec and the rest of Canada faced that next time as Quebecers decided whether to separate from Canada. Though they voted to stay by the narrowest of margins, the referendum provoked questions about Canadian identity and Quebecs place in Confederation. Distinct Society-Pros and Cons Now that we have studied the history surrounding the issue of Quebecs unique place within Canada, we will explore the pros and cons of recognizing Quebec as aShow MoreRelatedCanada s Constitutional Issue Of Canada1562 Words   |  7 Pagesaddresses if the Constitution should recognize the francophone population of Quebec as a separate nation or a distinct society, with a separate laid out set of different characteristics and needs from the rest of the provinces in Canada . An important question should be how Canada can best acknowledge, preserve, protect and defend Quebec’s language and culture. 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