DIEPPE, April 26, 2005 -- Minister of State (Human Resources Development) and Member of Parliament (Moncton--Riverview--Dieppe) Claudette Bradshaw, on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla, today announced $65,000 in funding for the Société Nationale de l'Acadie. The funds will allow the Société to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Great Upheaval by organizing a special event in Grand-Pré, Nova Scotia, on July 28, 2005. "The Great Upheaval has marked Canada's history," said Minister of State Bradshaw. "The tragedy of deportation has, in spite of everything, made the Acadian people a model of perseverance and determination. Today, Acadians face the future with confidence, and I am pleased that our Government is able to help commemorate this important period in their history." "This funding will help the Société Nationale de l'Acadie acquaint more people with the rich history of the Acadians, for the benefit of future generations," said Minister Frulla. The deportation of the Acadian people, commonly known as The Great Upheaval, began on September 5, 1755 and continued until 1763. This period tragically affected thousands of Acadians. The Government of Canada recognized the historic importance of The Great Upheaval through a Royal Proclamation and has designated July 28 as "A Day of Commemoration of the Great Upheaval". Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Development of the Official-Language Communities Program. Funding announced today was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget. -30- Information: Jean-Philippe Côté Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women (819) 997-7788 Anne Basque Executive Assistant Office of the Minister of State (Human Resources Development) (506) 851-3310 Claudine Daigle Director, Communications Canadian Heritage (506) 851-3980
