Popular culture often depicts Cajuns as backward rednecks who ride around in air boats and live in the swamp. But this gross misrepresentation detracts from the contributions of Louisiana’s Cajun culture, one which adds much to our state and attracts tourists from around the world.
Tourism has been a solid source of revenue for the state, and much of this is because of our rich cultural heritage, especially in south Louisiana. Festivals, Mardi Gras and the French Quarter all come from this shared Cajun heritage. Without it, not only would we suffer economically, but Louisiana life would be pretty boring.
Sadly, the roots of our culture slowly have been dying. Throughout much of the 20th century, the Cajun people were taught to be ashamed of their culture and language. One government program mandated teachers to force children to learn English. Many students who never spoke a word of English in their lives were forbidden to speak French at school and were often humiliated. I have heard numerous older Cajuns tell stories of their times at school when they were disciplined by switches or rulers for speaking French on the school grounds. Cajuns also were often mocked nationally. People of Cajun descent were ashamed to admit their heritage, and parents began to stop speaking French to their kids at home.
Slowly, Cajuns began to gain pride in their heritage and language. Many Louisianans served during World War II and their language was now seen as an invaluable tool not “bad French.” The U.S. Military had difficulties communicating with the French and called upon the Cajuns to act as interpreters. They served well in this capacity and gained confidence from it. Although most people are not ashamed to call themselves a “Cajun” today, the trend still continues. Young people are not learning French at home and know little about the origin of their heritage. As we continue to assimilate into popular culture, our heritage and language, which makes us unique, is becoming less of a factor in our daily lives.
Some rural residents still speak French at home, but we should not leave our cultural heritage in the hands of a few. Those of us planning on staying in Louisiana will be the future leaders of the state. The 2000 Census shows less than 20 percent of Louisiana residents hold undergraduate degrees. Your age and degree alone will set you apart. You play an important role in keeping this heritage alive.
Even if you don’t have a French last name or consider yourself a Cajun, it is important for you to be involved. If you grew up in Louisiana, your life has been shaped by these cultural surroundings. Hopefully, non-Cajuns will continue to be affected by Louisiana culture for many years to come.
There are many ways to get involved. Groups such as Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL) and Action Cadienne were founded to keep the Cajun French culture and language alive in Louisiana. They provide many opportunities to learn and help. Also, LSU offers courses in Cajun French and Cajun culture. There are usually plenty of openings for these classes.
As a freshman, I decided to take a Cajun French class, and I continued taking them almost every semester I have been at LSU. These courses will provide you with a solid Cajun French background and give you valuable knowledge to pass down to future generations.
Personally, I set a goal to become fluent so I may start a French-speaking tradition in my family. I still have a long way to go, but I believe it is worth it. Preserving our culture starts with individual people taking the initiative to do it for themselves.