Welcome to the QCGN!
The Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN) is a not-for-profit organization bringing together 36 English-language community organizations across Quebec for the purposes of supporting and assisting the development and enhancing the vitality of the English-speaking minority communities. This is undertaken principally through cooperation in the prioritization and development of projects and through the promotion of an effective coordinated approach.
QCGN's Vision for English-speaking Quebec
English-speaking Quebec is a diverse, confident, recognized and respected national linguistic minority. It actively participates in and contributes to the social, economic, cultural and political life of Quebec and Canadian society. English-speaking Quebec is committed to the maintenance and development of the institutional support it needs to thrive as a distinctive linguistic community.
QCGN's Mission
The Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN) identifies, explores and addresses the strategic issues affecting the development and vitality of English-speaking Quebec. It encourages dialogue and collaboration among its member organizations, individuals, community groups, institutions and leaders. In partnership with member organizations, stakeholders, community leaders and institutions, it articulates the views of English-speaking Quebec on issues of strategic concern and takes action to address them.
Brief history of the QCGN
The Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN) traces its roots back to 1994 when the 15 Quebec-based regional and sectoral organizations that were funded under the Official Language Minority Communities program were brought together by Canadian Heritage to better manage program and funding priorities. In 1995, 13 of those groups signed a first framework agreement with the federal government. A year later, that ad-hoc group founded the Quebec Community Groups Network.
By the turn of the second millennium, the QCGN had grown to 19 members. The Network received its first operational budget from the federal government allowing it to establish in the provincial capital in 2000.
In 2005, following consultations throughout the province, the QCGN launched its Community Development Plan with strategies to revitalize English-minority language communities around seven sectors including Arts and Culture, Education and Training, Employment, Health and Social Services, Media, Youth, and Visibility and Leadership.
Between 2005 and 2007, the QCGN entered a transitional phase during which time it adopted new by-laws and governance rules, created a new Board structure, and sought to include more organizations, particularly in the Greater Montreal Region. In 2006, the QCGN was recognized by the Government of Canada and the Department of Canadian Heritage as the official representative and interlocutor of Quebec’s English-speaking Community Sector - one of Canada’s two national linguistic minority communities. In 2007, the Network hired a Director General, moved its headquarters to Montreal, and brought seven new members into the fold.
In 2009, the QCGN launched celebrations for its 15th anniversary which were held concurrently with the 40th anniversary of the Official Languages Act. During the event, the QCGN inaugurated the Sheila and Victor Goldbloom Distinguished Community Service Award to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to strengthening the English-speaking community and to building bridges of understanding between Quebecers of different backgrounds. The Network also welcomed three new groups in 2009, bringing total membership to 32, partners who play a pivotal role in promoting the vitality of English-speaking Quebec and its communities. In 2010, the Network has grown to a total of 36 members.
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