Radio-Canada will air a special Canada Day television broadcast translated into Quebec Sign Language (LSQ) on July 1 [1].
The initiative aims to ensure the Deaf community has accessible programming during the national celebrations. By providing LSQ translation, the network removes a significant communication barrier for French-speaking sign language users across the country.
The broadcast is scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time [1]. Hosted by Daniel Thibeault, the program will be available across the national network of Radio-Canada [1], [2]. The event marks the 159th anniversary of Canada's confederation [1].
The programming was introduced by the Canadian government to foster inclusivity during the holiday. Marc Miller, the Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced the schedule for the 2026 festivities in May [2].
"C'est avec fierté que l'honorable Marc Miller, ministre du Patrimoine canadien, annonce la programmation de la fête du Canada 2026," Miller said [2].
This broadcast is part of a broader effort to integrate accessibility into high-profile national events. The use of LSQ specifically addresses the needs of the Quebec Deaf community, who may not use other sign languages such as ASL. The program will run throughout the morning and afternoon to capture the primary festivities taking place across the country [1], [2].
“The program will be available across the national network of Radio-Canada.”
The integration of Quebec Sign Language (LSQ) into a national broadcast reflects a shift toward linguistic inclusivity within Canada's public media. By prioritizing LSQ over a one-size-fits-all approach to accessibility, the government and Radio-Canada are acknowledging the distinct cultural and linguistic identity of the Deaf community in Quebec.
