BOISSEVAIN, Manitoba, June 26, 2008 - Residents and visitors to Lake Metigoshe will have an opportunity to take part in Métis Days, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
Merv Tweed, Member of Parliament (Brandon-Souris), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for Métis Days.
Funding of $3,000 will support the 15th annual Métis Days, which take place from July 5 to 6, 2008, in Lake Metigoshe, Manitoba. This event celebrates Métis culture through traditional song, dance, arts and crafts, and heritage presentations on the Michif language.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding for Métis Days," said Minister Verner. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage."
"It is important that future generations are aware of their origins and of Canada's rich and diverse heritage," said Mr. Tweed. "Métis Days will increase pride within our community and strengthen its shared sense of heritage."
"We're ecstatic to receive funding from Canadian Heritage in support of Métis Days," said Steve Racine, Chair of Turtle Mountain Local. "The grant will assist us with showcasing and celebrating our Métis culture."
The Government of Canada has provided this funding through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to provide Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and celebrations throughout Canada this year.
The Government of Canada is committed to building stronger communities and to providing all Canadians with opportunities to get involved in their communities and to celebrate Canadian arts and heritage.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie
819 997-7788
Angela Cassie
A/Director of Communications and
Executive Services
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
204 983-4367
