From September 2025 to fall 2026, a major artistic and community initiative is bringing together artists, organizations, and communities from across Ontario.
About the Initiative +
What is the Celebrating 50 Years, Shaping the Future Together initiative?
An artistic and community-driven initiative marking the 50th anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian flag.
It brings together artists, organizations and communities across Ontario to co-create projects that reflect the diversity, history and future of the Franco-Ontarian community.
Who is leading the initiative?
The initiative is led by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, in partnership with the Alliance culturelle de l’Ontario, with the support of numerous cultural, community and institutional partners.
How was the initiative developed?
The initiative was officially launched on September 25, 2025, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian flag and to open a year of celebration across Ontario. It began with an open and inclusive call for expressions of interest, allowing individuals and organizations to share an idea, connect with the coordination team and explore co-creation pathways rooted in their communities.
Why did some project leads submit a formal application?
Following the call for expressions of interest and discussions with the team, some projects chose to seek financial support to move their projects forward. These groups were then invited to submit a formal application, as part of the call for projects and following established guidelines, through the Ontario Arts Council platform. The formal application process was required only for projects seeking financial support.
The Initiative’s Progression +
Where is the initiative at now?
The selected projects have been announced and are currently underway. They are supported by the coordination team throughout their development process, from February to June 2026.
How were the projects selected?
An independent jury—formed in partnership with the Ontario Arts Council—evaluated the submitted projects to guarantee a rigorous and equitable process that represents Ontario’s diverse regions and communities.
What are the next steps?
The coming months will focus on project support, documentation of the creative processes, and preparation for future presentation and showcasing phases.
Showcasing and Partnerships +
How will the projects be showcased?
Showcasing will take place progressively during a later phase of the initiative. It may take different forms, such as public presentation activities, educational or community partnerships, a collective exhibition or a digital showcase. An adapted version of the exhibition is being considered as part of the Francophonie Summit scheduled for early November 2026.
Can people still get involved?
Absolutely! While the list of funded projects is now complete, we continue to welcome additional forms of participation. Whether you would like to share an idea, develop a partnership, exchange expertise, co-organize an event or connect with our network, our team remains available. Contact us to explore what we can build together.
Who can I contact for more information?
For any questions or to discuss an idea, please contact the coordination team at the Alliance culturelle de l'Ontario at: communication@allianceculturelle.org
Follow the project
The Expression of Interest period is now closed.
Thank you to everyone who shared their ideas.
To stay informed about the next steps, you can subscribe to the mailing list of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
If you would like to explore how you can still take part in the initiative, write to us at: communication@allianceculturelle.org