French is spoken in Maine ~ map check

Although this radio news report and "echo" blog, about speaking French in Maine provides interesting data, the context of the story requires looking at a map. Maine borders both Quebec and New Brunswick Canadian provinces, where French is a primary language for most of the populations that live there. 

Obviously, speaking French in those border towns, on both sides of the international dividing line, is essential to commerce.  Nevertheless, the pride in speaking French is beginning to take hold. This resurgence of pride is occurring following decades of language suppression, experienced by most Franco-Americans, who were often made fun of for speaking French, in the past.

Reported by WCYYNews ~ Maine has a lot of unique qualities that makes living here undeniably wonderful. But one of the unique outliers for Maine might surprise you. Did you know that Maine has more households that speak French than other state in the country?

According to the latest Census Bureau data, Maine has 5.28% of the French speaking households in the entire United States, and given Maine's smallish population compared to other states, that's impressive. The next closest state is Louisiana, who has 4.68% of the French speaking households countrywide.
While the distinction is cool, will it last? While language has been passed down from generation to generation here in Maine, can it sustain at such a high level? 

In fact, the original writer, who reported this tidbit you're reading right now, grew up in a Franco-American hotspot in Maine, Lewiston, with great-grandparents, grandparents and parents who all spoke French fluently. However, the author can't speak any of it. Will it be completely lost over a few more generations? 

Only time will tell. (MaineWriter ~ It's never too late to learn~ Parler francaise!)