Ottawa, February 17, 2006
By Beverley J. Oda
Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women
Heritage Day, celebrated each year on the third Monday of February, encourages us to rediscover our history and the values that have shaped Canada into an open and progressive nation with one of the highest standards of living in the world.
Heritage Day encourages us to consider some of the major events—such as the first meetings between French explorers and Aboriginal people in the Americas, the settlement of the West, immigration, and the development of communication and transportation networks across our vast land—that have helped shape our country and our culture.
Aboriginal languages and cultures, linguistic duality, and multiculturalism have become cornerstones of our Canadian identity. Our values of inclusion and accommodation of diversity are the reason why Canada is a beacon for freedom and democracy.
And Heritage Day is an opportunity to seek new experiences to better understand our history and culture.
I hope you will take this year’s theme, “Our Cultural Heritage Places,” to heart and discover our rich museums, archives, libraries, historical buildings, and other spaces where Canada can be explored.
As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, I would like to thank all those whose traditions, generosity of spirit, and sense of community enhance our society. I encourage all Canadians to celebrate our shared history and culture on this day and throughout the year.
Happy Heritage Day to all Canadians!
Information:
Jean-Guy Beaupré
Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 997-9314
