A little bit of Heaven
My dearest clients and partners,
For the past few weeks, I’ve been mulling over the tone I would take in conveying my best wishes for the upcoming holiday season. As in past years, it is important to me that this communication is unique, authentic and transparent on the ties between us and GP Conceptal’s mission.
Speaking Out
The year got off to a busy start as we continued our analysis of Bill 96, which came into force on June 1, 2022. The government’s intention was to reform Quebec’s Charter of the French Language (Bill 101). To speak to my clients’ experiences and advocate for their rights, I wish I had been permitted to testify at the parliamentary commission that preceded the Bill’s adoption. Despite my numerous requests to the Office québécois de la langue française and the Minister of the French Language, I was not invited to the hearings; my statements would have been unfavourable.
This law runs counter to everything for which GP Conceptal has stood for almost 20 years. It is businesses who will pay the price, specifically those who work internationally. After careful reflection and discussions with a range of people, I realized that many are afraid of reprisals if they dare to speak up and denounce the absurdities of this law. Faced with this situation, I could not remain silent and passive.
In line with my belief in justice, I took legal steps with the support of three businesses. We filed a motion for judicial review, declaratory order and injunction in November. I must admit that this process is demanding, stressful and expensive. I can assure you that it is not GP Conceptal’s interests that I seek to protect, but rather our businesses’ freedom of choice, right to manage and sovereignty. I will keep you apprised of the next steps.
The Short Life of an Angel
At the same time, I experienced a personal tragedy on October 20. My daughter gave birth to a beautiful baby named Mila. She lived only a few hours. Her heart, weakened during birth, stopped beating. I had the privilege of seeing her and holding her in my arms. I am grateful to be part of the grieving parents’ close-knit support system and I honour their courage. My home, recently the site of a baby shower, became the place that we gathered with loved ones for a ceremony of farewell to Mila. I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the support and kind words you extended to us.
I feel closely connected with you all, dear clients and partners. You are well aware that my work far exceeds financial obligation. It is a commitment to allow you to work in the best language conditions possible. I feel the wind at my back and I am not afraid of the months to come.
Therefore, I am wishing you the courage to overcome your own challenges in the coming year. I know that living according to our values provides peace of mind, because we have the conviction that we are doing what is right.
In this spirit, GP Conceptal continues its tradition and will make donations to the following organizations: Sainte-Justine Tree of Lights, the Red Cross, the Fondation du Centre jeunesse de la Montérégie, the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Palliative Care Home Foundation (FMSPVS), the MS Society of Canada, the Perséides and the Parents orphelins.
I will be thinking of you during the restful holiday period. I hope that, like me, you will be surrounded by people you love. This is the gift that I wish for you.
Contact us. We have solutions for you.
Chantal Larouche
President, GP Conceptal Inc.
514 347-3984
chantal@gpconceptal.com
gpconceptal.com