OTTAWA, April 5, 2008 -- Scott Reid, Member of Parliament (Lanark-Frontenac-Lennox and Addington), on behalf of the Honourable Jason Kenney, Secretary of State (Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity), will address assembled highland dancers and pipes and drums bands during Tartan Day celebrations on Parliament Hill tomorrow.
"The Government of Canada recognizes the many ways in which Scottish culture and tradition have contributed to the strength of our communities," said Secretary of State Kenney. "Scottish tartans are a wonderful symbol of cohesion: each plaid, with its blend of different colours and patterns represents a family, a region, an organization, or a nation."
Canada's unofficial national tartan is the Maple Leaf Tartan, designed in 1964 by David Weiser for the centennial of Confederation, and most provinces and territories have their own tartan. Secretary of State Kenney registered the Maple Leaf Tartan with the Scottish Tartan Authority in Edinburgh, Scotland, in the name of the Dominion of Canada.
"Tartan Day is an opportunity for people across North America to celebrate their Scottish roots. The date marks the anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath, the Scottish declaration of independence. It has been observed in Canada since 1993," said Mr. Reid.
The event on Parliament Hill will be held outside at noon and will feature Scottish pipes and drums, and dancing.
Information:
Alykhan Velshi
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Jason Kenney, PC, MP
Secretary of State (Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity)
alykhan.velshi@pch.gc.ca
