In recognition of annual Franco-American Day and in honor of the many contributions of Franco-Americans to the state of Maine, Governor Janet Mills issued the following statement Thursday:
“One in every four Mainers is Franco-American and Québécois accents, cuisine, and culture can be found in every town from Biddeford to Fort Kent. Our history, families, businesses and values have been deeply connected for centuries, so it is only fitting that we pause today to honor the vast contributions of Franco-Americans to our state and our nation,” said Governor Janet Mills. “I ask the people of Maine to join with me in honoring the shared history and culture we have created together. Nous sommes tous fiers des contributions apportées par les Franco-Américains à notre grand État au cours des 150 dernières années.”
French Translation: We are all proud of the contributions made by Franco-Americans to our great state over the past 150 years.
The first Franco-American Day was observed in the State Capitol on Wednesday, May 6, 2002. On Franco-American Day, legislative proceedings are conducted in both French and English and inductees to the Franco-American Hall of Fame are recognized during ceremonies in celebration of Franco-American cuisine, music, history and culture.