HOBBEMA, Alberta, March 19, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Blaine Calkins, Member of Parliament (Wetaskiwin), today announced funding that will enable the Miyo Wahkohtowin Community Education Authority to continue to develop its Web-based interactive Cree language portal.
This online portal, which includes a dictionary and curriculum-based resources, is accessible to all First Nations communities and will help further the development of the Cree language in Canada.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to partner with an organization that is contributing to the revitalization and promotion of an Aboriginal language," said Minister Moore. "The important tool being developed will provide people across Canada, particularly young people, with the opportunity to learn the Cree language and, as a result, help ensure that it is preserved."
"Incorporating 21st century technology into this ambitious project will attract First Nations youth to this important part of their culture and history for the benefit of future generations," said Mr. Calkins.
"The online Cree portal is an important project dedicated to the preservation and learning of the Cree language and culture," said Ahmad Jawad, Project Manager for the Online Cree Dictionary. "The success of the project is attributable in large part to the dedication, passion, and collaboration of all partners and, in particular, to the leadership and guidance of the Miyo Education Authority Administration."
The Government of Canada has provided $116,000 in funding through the Aboriginal Languages Initiative, part of the Department of Canadian Heritage's Aboriginal Peoples' Program. This program supports the full participation of Aboriginal peoples in Canadian society and the promotion, revitalization, and preservation of Aboriginal languages and cultures. It also helps enable Aboriginal peoples to address the social, cultural, economic, and political issues affecting their lives. The Aboriginal Languages Initiative provides funding to support the preservation and promotion of Aboriginal languages to increase the use of these languages in community and family settings.
Information: Stephanie Rea
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
stephanie.rea@pch.gc.ca Christine Riske
Constituency Assistant to
Blaine Calkins, Member of
Parliament (Wetaskiwin)
403-783-5530
calkib1@parl.gc.ca Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
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