Quebec is in mourning over the passing of Guy Rocher

Guy Rocher, a key figure in Quebec's Quiet Revolution and the "Father of CEGEPs," has passed away. His contributions to education, the French language, and culture have deeply shaped Quebec, as expressed by various political figures and organisations.

Marie Montpetit, president and CEO of the Fédération des CEGEPs, described Rocher as a determined builder and visionary for Quebec. Alexandre Cloutier, president of the University of Quebec, commented that Rocher's commitment to accessibility to higher education in French allowed generations of Quebecers to pursue studies they could not.

Steven Guilbeault, Canadian Minister of Identity and Culture, echoed these sentiments, stating that Rocher's contributions shaped Quebec in profound ways. Jean-François Roberge, Minister of Francization and Integration, even went so far as to consider Rocher the most significant sociologist in Quebec's history.

Rocher was a former member of the Parent Commission, which laid the foundations for the current education system in the 1960s. He was involved in drafting the Charter of the French Language and contributed to the creation of CEGEPs, polyvalent high schools, and the University of Quebec network through the Parent Commission.

Rocher's impact on education extended beyond the classroom. He was above all a professor, according to Alexandre Cloutier. His Introduction to General Sociology was significant, as noted by Alexandre Boulerice, Deputy Leader of the New Democratic Party. Ruba Ghazal, spokesperson for Québec solidaire, described Rocher as a man of conviction who defended the Quebec public school system.

Yves-François Blanchet, leader of the Bloc Québécois, had a deep respect for Rocher. Paul St-Pierre-Plamondon, leader of the Parti Québécois, described Rocher as a kind, available, and generous man. Quebec Premier François Legault wrote that Rocher's work and voice will continue to illuminate modern Quebec.

Fannie Arcand and many organisations/political figures celebrated Rocher's contributions to education, French language protection, and modern Quebec. However, it's worth noting that the title of "Father of CEGEPs" is historically associated with Miville Bédard or educators linked to the Parent Commission reforms in Quebec during the 1960s. While Rocher is known as the "father of CEGEPs" by the Fédération des CEGEPs, the specific name associated with this title is not explicitly confirmed in the given sources.

Regardless of the title, there is no denying the significant impact Guy Rocher had on Quebec. His vision for accessible, French-language education and his dedication to shaping a better future for Quebecers will continue to be felt for years to come.