Language Policy

PURPOSE

The Navy League of Canada (NLOC) is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment that reflects Canada’s bilingual character and diverse cultural heritage. This policy outlines the principles and practices that guide the use of official languages within the organization.

SCOPE

This policy applies to:

• All Navy League of Canada National Office Staff and National Board of Directors and Committees
• All programs, events, and communications undertaken by the NLOC

TRANSLATION AND INTERPRETATION SUPPORT SERVICES

• DeepL – The National Office maintains a subscription to DeepL to support translation of routine documents and emails.
• Wordly – The National Office subscribes to Wordly, an AI-based platform that provides simultaneous interpretation services to support meetings across the League.
• GTI Translation and Interpretation – Based in Calgary, AB, GTI provides professional translation services for official publications, policies, and other formal documents as required by the National Office.

POLICY STATEMENTS

1. Official Communications

National-level communications, including official documents, policies, and public statements, will be made available in both English and French.

2. Programs and Services

• Efforts will be made to provide programs, training, and activities in both official languages, depending on available resources and local needs.
• Cadets and youth participants will be supported in their language of choice wherever possible.

3. Meetings and Events

• National meetings will be conducted with simultaneous interpretation in both official languages
• Where possible, committees and other working groups will be conducted with interpretation in order to maximize participation by all participants

4. Recruitment, Training, and Volunteer Support

• Recruitment materials for volunteers and cadets will be made available in both official languages.

LANGUAGE USE FOR WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA

All official Navy League content posted on the website and social media should be published in both official languages at the same time.

If a 3rd party distributes content on social media, and its only in one language (French or English), the post may be shared in its original format without being translated. However, every effort will be made to share the social media post in both languages.

NATIONAL OFFICE

The working language of the National Office is English; however, the Executive Director is to ensure that at least one staff member who is bilingual is available in the office to serve members in both official languages during working hours, providing staff resources are available.

For any questions or clarification regarding this Bilingualism Policy, please contact the National Office by email at national@navyleague.ca

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August 2025