The RAWQ Report

Six Myths

Why be member of the Regional Association of West Quebecers (RAWQ)? Sure, it only costs $10/year, but what do I get out of it? What has RAWQ ever done for me? To answer these questions let's address some of the mythology and misconceptions that surround the association.

Myth 1: RAWQ only represents the urban core.
Not so. Our mandate covers the entire Outaouais. This is reflected in our present board members who come from: Hull, Aylmer, Chelsea, and Shawville and in our membership from all over the region, with whom we're in regular contact. We have held community consultation meetings in Shawville, Hull, Aylmer and Chelsea.

Myth 2: RAWQ is a one-issue group: language rights.
Our activities touch virtually every aspect of community life. RAWQ has taken on a variety of challenges in the last 2 years. Of course, some of them are language oriented but others are tied in with education, health and social issues. Examples are the fight for a gym at Heritage College, the stance against the reduction of English services at health institutions, and the fight for linguistic services to English-speakers in the new city of Gatineau. Education, Youth, Health, Economic Development, Culture, Heritage and language issues are the mainstay.

Myth 3: RAWQ has never done anything for me.
You may feel this way, but consider that many of our successes may have touched your life as an English-speaker in West Quebec, without you being aware. Our projects have been very well received in the community. The recent publication and distribution of the 'Community Directory of English Services and Community Institutions in the Outaouais' is a good example. The undertaking of the New Residents Program which will welcome English-speaking newcomers to the Outaouais and provide them with much needed information, is another. As well, through our advocacy work and our ability to network with regional associations and sector groups in Quebec, we provide a strong, recognized and representative voice for the concerns of our members at the provincial and federal level.

Myth 4: What RAWQ does has no affect on me.
Individual members and the public-at-large usually appreciate RAWQ's help referring them to, among other things, English speaking health support groups, and providing information on how to appeal for certificates of eligibility for their child's education in English, and how to innovate a small or medium-sized business. RAWQ works quietly and diligently behind the scense on ongoing dossiers like: access to health and social service institutions, finding careers for our youth in Quebec, and economic and human resource development. Keep our number handy the next time you're puzzled! Members receive 2 newsletters and 2 news updates annually, and may choose to sign up on the Members Email list to receive more regular updates, so they are better informed on issues affecting them.

Myth 5: RAWQ doesn't need me.
Numbers count. Our success representing the English speaking community (ESC) at the Municipal, Provincial and Federal levels depends on those willing to stand up and be counted in our membership. Being a member of RAWQ means that you support the association's mission in its work to ensure a better future for the ESC.

Myth 6: If I join, I'll be asked to do something.
Should you choose to be active, we would welcome you! However, your membership alone shows that you support the broad objectives of the association. Further participation is strictly voluntary. Become a member only, choose to serve on a committee or the Board of Directors, or volunteer for the New Residents Program and make your voice heard. Your commitment through membership, financial, support and/or committee involvement is what makes the Regional Association of West Quebecers an effective resource and credible voice for our community. Annual membership is $10.00.

To find our more about our activities and programs visit our website at: www.westquebecers.com or call (819) 682-9602, Toll Free: 1 877 733-0177 Drop by our offices at 53 Principal Aylmer and talk to the staff.

Kathy Teasdale, Communications

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