Louisiana House Bill HCR173

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/26/15
• Engrossed: 5/26/15
• Passed: 5/28/15

Caption

Designates Tuesday, May 26, 2015, as CODOFIL Day at the state capitol

Impact

By designating CODOFIL Day, HCR173 aims to raise awareness about the cultural and economic contributions of CODOFIL to Louisiana. The resolution notes the significance of CODOFIL's initiatives in supporting a bilingual workforce that is prepared for the state's economic demands. The relationship established with French companies is credited with creating thousands of jobs and facilitating significant export activities. This resolution seeks to reaffirm the state’s commitment to fostering connections that enhance Louisiana’s global presence and cultural vibrancy.

Summary

HCR173 is a House Concurrent Resolution designed to officially recognize May 26, 2015, as CODOFIL Day at the state capitol in Louisiana. The resolution honors the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL), an agency created in 1968 aimed at promoting the state's francophone culture, heritage, and language. The resolution emphasizes the importance of Louisiana's French and Creole culture as a vital part of the state's identity, highlighting its role in enhancing economic growth and tourism through a robust bilingual educational system and maintaining relationships with international partners such as France, Belgium, and Quebec.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR173 is largely positive, reflecting a bipartisan appreciation for the cultural significance and economic contributions of French language initiatives in Louisiana. Lawmakers from various backgrounds united to support the resolution, indicating a shared recognition of the importance of preserving and promoting Louisiana's unique cultural heritage. This acknowledgment by the legislature demonstrates a collective commitment to maintaining the state's francophone identity and the associated benefits that come from it.

Contention

While the resolution is a show of support for CODOFIL and its mission, there may be underlying concerns regarding the emphasis on a specific cultural identity within a diverse state. Some legislators could critique the focus on bilingual education and cultural promotion, questioning the balancing of resources among various ethnic communities. However, the resolution itself presents a unified front that celebrates the contributions of French culture to Louisiana, with few overt points of contention noted in the discussions surrounding HCR173.