The Official Languages Commissioner of Canada stirred controversy by posting a Valentine's Day card that contained an unintended suggestive connotation in its French translation. The card humorously suggested that practicing a second official language can be exciting, using language that some interpreted as having subtle phallic implications. This unusual move by a federal government entity tasked with promoting bilingualism has raised eyebrows and has been criticized for its lack of professionalism in translation.

The card featured playful wording, particularly in the English version, claiming, 'My tail starts wagging and my heart is all aflutter… when you practice your second official language!' However, the attempt at humor did not resonate well, especially when critics pointed out the potential double entendre in the French translation. Such a faux pas from a government watchdog could undermine the seriousness of their mission to promote bilingualism and inclusivity in Canada’s official languages arena.

This incident is reflective of the challenges faced by organizations trying to balance humor with their serious mandates. In a social media age where poor translations can quickly lead to backlash, the Official Languages Commissioner’s card serves as a cautionary tale for public institutions. They must ensure that their messages are clear, appropriate, and sensitive to the audience to maintain credibility in their communications.