Speak

Laurence Pilon

Quebec has a complex history of linguistic conflicts still affecting the present multicultural society. “Speak White” refers to a racist expression used by English authorities in the late 60s to regulate French-Canadian workers. It is also the name of a poem, written by Michèle Lalonde after the Quiet Revolution, that critiques the ethnic and linguistic tensions. Quebecer Marco Micone, born in Italy, wrote “Speak What” years later in response to Lalonde’s work, suggesting that intolerances prevailing in the province are now directed against immigrants.

Ink, Paper, Poetry
2 x 24 x 36 in.