Cajun artist Zachary Richard has been writing, singing and working in French for over 50 years now.

For him, the language is more than a way to celebrate southwest Louisiana's unique culture — it's a vital connection to the global Francophone community. That connection ensures that the culture will continue to grow and thrive, according to Richard.

No language, or people, can flourish when kept under glass.

"A lot of my professional life since the mid-'70s has been in Quebec, and being part of a French language culture has encouraged me to develop my writing skills," said the 75-year-old musician and poet from Scott. He has a place in Montreal, and splits the year between Canada and Louisiana.

Since the 1970s, Richard has been a prolific recording and touring artist in both French and

See Full Page