SIOUX LOOKOUT, Ontario, July 28, 2008 - Residents and visitors to Sioux Lookout will have an opportunity to enjoy heritage music and performances thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
The Honourable Tony Cleme ent, Minister of Health and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francopho nie, today announced funding for the Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee.
The $25,000 in funding will help the Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee present the 2008 Sioux Mountain Festival, which takes place August 2-3 at the Sioux Lookout Tow n Beach. The Committee, whose mandate is to eradicate all forms of racism and encourage representation of the native population within the community, is organizing the 8th annual Sioux Mountain Festival, which features musical entertainment, artisans, and heritage performances.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding for the Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee," said Minister Verner. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities such as the Si oux Mountain Festival that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage."
"Local festivals like this one bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to building strong communities," said Minister Clement. "I am proud that our Government has taken decisive steps to strengthen our shared sense of heritage."
"The funding from Canadian Heritage will allow the Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee to support the culture of our community by paying local artists and musicians," said Iris Stunzi, Summer Coordinator of the Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee. "The Sioux Mountain Festival is the largest event of its kind in Sioux Lookout and benefits greatly from Canadian Heritage's funding."
The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage (BCAH) program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local hist ory and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and celebrations throughout Canada this year.
Information :
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heri tage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie
819 997-7788
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
1 866 569-6155
