Atlantic Canada’s rich multicultural heritage is central to the region’s identity, and supports a strong, vibrant, and welcoming society that attracts visitors and newcomers from around the world. The Government of Canada is investing to ensure that Acadian community art and culture, and the French language, continue to flourish in Nova Scotia.

“Our official language minority communities in Chéticamp play a vital role in our cultural fabric, and it is our duty to ensure that they have access to quality educational and community infrastructure. Partnering with the province and investing in construction projects that directly benefit these communities provides them with the necessary funding to pave the way for stronger, more prosperous, and harmonious communities. Through these initiatives, we are not just building physical structures; we are creating spaces that nurture knowledge, encourage diversity, and promote cultural exchange.”
-  Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages

“ Shared arts, culture and heritage bind Canadian communities together and inspire visitors to fall in love with the unique experiences Atlantic Canada has to offer. The Chéticamp Cultural Quarter reminds us that artistic expression thrives far beyond city limits and that celebrating Acadian tradition ensures its enduring presence for many more years.”
- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“This project reflects the vibrant and dynamic Acadian community that is at the heart of Chéticamp. Investing in institutions like the the Cultural Quarter helps us preserve our traditions and empowers future generations to forge their own artistic path. Locals and visitors will be able to enjoy the distinct culture and history of the region at this new, enriching hub.”
- Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton – Canso

“Our government is proud to support projects like the Quartier Culturel de Chéticamp that celebrate the unique history, culture, language, and traditions of Nova Scotia’s Acadian and Francophone communities and contribute to their continued vitality.”
- The Honourable Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie

“The cultural quarter will provide CSAP students with authentic cultural experiences. We’re delighted to be working in partnership with the Conseil des arts de Chéticamp to raise the profile of our community.”
- Marcel Cottreau, President of the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial

“Thank you to the partners and community members who have continued to believe in this beautiful project. The Arts Council has had this project in mind for several years now. The communities of Chéticamp and surrounding areas have been patient, and we’re delighted to be able to announce that the wait has been worthwhile, and Chéticamp will soon have a community space for major events."
- Cyril Camus, President of the Conseil des Arts de Chéticamp

• The Conseil scolaire acadien provincial (CSAP) was founded in May of 1996, and is the only French-language school board in Nova Scotia. CSAP has 23 schools and serves nearly 6,500 youth from kindergarten to grade 12. 

• The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, adopted in 1982, recognizes the right to minority-language education in Canada. In 1981, Nova Scotia adopted a new Education Act that gives Acadians the right to receive French-language education.

• The Conseil des Arts de Chéticamp (CAC) promotes Acadian culture in Nova Scotia through activities such as artistic workshops, cultural events, and artistic training. The Conseil offers extracurricular programs for students in CSAP and immersion schools to stimulate their creativity, strengthen their artistic skills and deepen their knowledge of Acadian culture.

• Canadian Heritage is contributing $1.5 million to the Government of Nova Scotia for this project through its Support for Community Educational Infrastructure Fund from the Investing in Canada Plan.

• ACOA is providing $500,000 for this project through its Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).

• ACOA previously announced funding for this project in 2017. That investment supported the building of the facility and outdoor amenities including an outdoor classroom and theatre. 

• Canadian Heritage also provided $475,000 in 2017-2018 to add community spaces to École NDA to accommodate the Cultural Quarter.  

   

Associated links

• Conseil scolaire acadien provincial (in French only)
• Public Policy Forum - The Atlantic Canada Momentum Index

Hugo Alvarez
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development
Hugo.Alvarez@ised-isde.gc.ca

Marianne Blondin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages
marianne.blondin@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Lauren Sinclair
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
782-641-6365
Lauren.Sinclair@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Stéphanie Comeau
Communications Coordinator
Conseil scolaire acadien provincial
902-471-0082
Stephanie.Comeau@csap.ca

Elyse Delaney
Direction générale
Conseil des arts de Chéticamp
902-224-1876
Direction@artscheticamp.org

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