Inna Gimenez, a new Canadian citizen, holds a flag while posing for a photo on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, marking her first Canada Day as a citizen on Thursday, July 1, 2021. CTV
Several Canadian language experts raised concerns this month. They say federal documents now use British spelling styles. They believe this change sends the wrong signal globally. They want the government to return to Canadian spelling standards.
Letter Sent to Prime Minister
Five linguistics scholars and an editors group sent a letter. They addressed it to Prime Minister Mark Carney. The letter carries a clear message. Canada should protect its own English spelling style. The group says spelling matters for identity and clarity.
British Spellings Appear in Federal Papers
The experts pointed to recent official documents. They noted British spellings such as “utilisation” and “globalisation.” They also cited “catalyse” instead of “catalyze.” These spellings appeared in the 2025 federal budget. The writers said this marked a shift from past practice.
Canadian Spelling Remains Widely Used
The letter states that Canadian spelling remains common nationwide. Publishers use it in books and magazines. Newspapers and broadcasters follow it. Federal and provincial governments have also used it for decades. Consistency, they say, helps readers understand what defines Canadian English.
Risk of Public Confusion
The group warned about possible confusion. They wrote, “If governments start to use other systems for spelling, this could lead to confusion about which spelling is Canadian.” They stressed that clear standards matter for education and public trust.
Spelling Tied to National Identity
The experts described Canadian spelling as part of national identity. They said language reflects history and culture. They argued that spelling choices shape how Canada presents itself. Using Canadian forms shows confidence and independence.
Who Signed the Letter
Several respected figures signed the letter. They include professors J.K. Chambers, Sandra Clarke, Stefan Dollinger, and Sali Tagliamonte. Canadian English Dictionary editor John Chew also signed. Editors Canada president Kaitlin Littlechild added her name.
A Long-Standing Government Practice
The letter urges a return to past practice. It notes that federal offices used Canadian spelling consistently from the 1970s to 2025. The writers asked Parliament and government departments to continue that approach.
No Response Yet
The Prime Minister’s Office has not commented publicly. Officials did not respond to requests for reaction. The silence leaves the issue unresolved for now.
What Makes Canadian English Unique
The letter explains Canadian English history. Loyalists shaped it after the American Revolution. Later immigrants from Britain and Ireland influenced it. Indigenous languages also contributed words and phrases. Global cultures continue to shape it today.
Between Britain and the United States
Canadian English shares traits with both British and American English. Geography played a role. Yet the language developed its own patterns. The experts say this balance makes Canadian English distinct.
Choosing What Fits Canada
Canadians borrow spellings from both traditions. Some words follow American forms. Others follow British ones. Certain British spellings never gained use here. Some American forms also remain uncommon.
A Call to Protect Canadian Style
The letter ends with a strong appeal. It states, “Canadian English evolved here and represents a unique aspect of our culture.” The writers urge Ottawa to use Canadian spelling everywhere. They say the choice reflects history, pride, and national confidence.
