The Government of Canada Invests in Local Indigenous Arts
News release
ALBAN, Ontario, June 25, 2018
Investments in local arts and culture bring communities together, making them better places to live.
Marc Serré, Member of Parliament (Nickel Belt), today announced funding to support the 12th edition of the Festival of Peoples, organized by the French River Visitor Centre First Nation and Aboriginal Advisory Committee in Alban, Ontario. He made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage.
Now in its 12th year, the Festival of Peoples—also known as the French River Pow Wow—brings together communities surrounding the French River area to showcase and celebrate local Indigenous arts and culture.
Residents and visitors to the French River Visitor Centre will be able to enjoy a range of performances, exhibitions, and community gatherings right in the heart of their community.
The funding of $14,900 is provided by the Government of Canada through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program. This program provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists and heritage performers.
Quotes
“Our government knows that investments in arts and culture help build strong communities. We are proud to support the Festival of Peoples, an event that brings residents and visitors together to celebrate local Indigenous art and heritage. This investment is part of our government’s commitment to promoting our artists and artisans, and ensuring that Canadians can continue to learn about the rich local heritage of their communities.”
—The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
“I am proud of our government’s continued support for the Festival of Peoples. Events like this play an important role in preserving local history and identity. Congratulations to the organizers and the volunteers who make this annual celebration of Indigenous heritage possible!”
—Marc Serré, Member of Parliament (Nickel Belt)
“The Advisory Committee is proud of the financial support provided by the Government of Canada. Each year brings the opportunity to revisit our heritage, cultural values and knowledge.”
—Donna Longlade, Chairperson of the French River Visitor Centre’s First Nation and Aboriginal Advisory Committee
Quick facts
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Prior to being given its name because of its association with 17th century French explorers such as Samuel de Champlain and Étienne Brûlé, the French River was known as AMIK ZIIBII, in recognition of the beaver that were plentiful in the area. Amik means “beaver” and ziibi means “river” in Ojibway.
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The French River was the first river to receive a heritage designation under the Canadian Heritage Rivers System conservancy.
Associated links
Contacts
For more information (media only), please contact:
Simon Ross
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
819-997-7788
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
pch.media-media.pch@canada.ca