In the political landscape of the province, discussions often revolve around Quebec identity, known as “l’identité Québécoise” in French. But what exactly does this term signify and who holds the authority to define it? In the lead-up to the provincial election on Oct. 5, a diverse group of Quebecers shared their distinct perspectives on the matter.

The conversations that ensued were rich in candidness and intricacy, reflecting a broad spectrum of viewpoints. Among those interviewed were two women who migrated from India and Pakistan to Quebec during the era of René Lévesque in the 1970s. Additionally, I engaged with young advocates of Quebec sovereignty, each with Indigenous and Maghrebi heritage, respectively.

Delving further, I met a Montrealer who distinguishes herself as a resident of Montreal rather than Quebec, alongside two individuals who navigate their sense of Quebecois pride while staunchly supporting English-language institutions.

Dolores Chew and Shaheen Ashraf, who have resided in Quebec for over five decades, reminisce over their ties to South Asian culture, such as enjoying a cup of chai, while reflecting on their experiences during the period of René Lévesque’s leadership. Despite one of them voting ‘Yes’ in the 1980 referendum, their perceptions of belonging underwent shifts in the aftermath.

Nabil Ben Ali Ouriaghli and Benjamin Gingras, members of Oui Quebec advocating for sovereignty, envision an independent Quebec that prioritizes inclusivity and unity. They acknowledge the need for better communication to disseminate their message effectively.

Shereen Joseph, a Malaysian national, discovered a profound sense of belonging in Montreal, distinct from her experiences in Western Canada. Embracing her Malaysian heritage, she found resonance in identifying as a Montrealer, shedding light on her journey with the French language and her observations on language dynamics within the province.

Susan Perera and Allison Saunders, commissioners of English-language school boards, view these institutions not only as centers of education but also as pillars of community and promoters of a bilingual Quebec. While proudly affirming their Quebec identity, Saunders occasionally feels at odds with certain perceptions of what constitutes a Quebecer.

These diverse narratives offer a multifaceted insight into the evolving landscape of Quebec identity and the varied interpretations that individuals bring to this discourse.