Examples of headwear and stories of the people who wore them.

Guy Cousineau’s Kepi, 39th Zouaves Pontificaux 39th Company of the Pontifical Zouaves of Saint-Charles Parish Museoparc Even as a young boy, born and bred in Eastview – today’s Vanier – Guy Cousineau was looking for something to do for the community. The Papal Zouaves were known for its history of protection and community service. Joining the 39th Company of the Papal Zouaves was an answer, and he wore this kepi for years. The badge on this kepi features a bugle, symbolizing a call to action. And Guy did take action to become an alderman and a mayor. Guy inherited a passion for Vanier – sometimes called the ‘Francophone fortress of eastern Ontario’ – from his father and grandfather, who preceded him in politics. Guy devoted himself to preserving the bilingualism that lies at the core of the community’s identity. “The main point is our heritage,” he explained to his constituents as they debated amalgamation with Ottawa. In 2001, Guy presided over the last days of Vanier as an independent city, and he heard fears that the French language would be submerged into the larger whole. As evidence of the passion for the city and the people in the community, Vanier council’s last resolution proposed official bilingualism for the City of Ottawa. Though the resolution was never ratified, Ottawa responded by putting a robust policy in place. In practical terms, Ottawa is one of the most bilingual cities in Canada. The Zouave kepi speaks of the commitment to community that Guy Cousineau always brought to the table.