It's not about dictionary definitions.
It's about how Quebecers think of themselves. Let me clarify my position: I am a Canadian and a Quebecer. I would prefer Quebec to be a part of Canada. I do respect the rights of the majority, though, to decide whether Quebec wants to be a country.

What I particularly dislike is non-quebecers insulting us. If you other Canadians really want to make us feel welcome, you wouldn't insult us or tell us that "you know best how we should feel". Quebecers are just as proud of our French ancestry and culture as any other nationality is-as proud as you are of yours. Making jokes about this is as offensive as telling pickaninny jokes to African Americans.
As for our American mudcatters, I'm sure you would understand how a Maine yankee would resent similar advice from Americans outside that state.