OTTAWA, May 27, 2009 - Canada's creators and broadcasters together have played a vital role in building this country, telling our diverse stories and helping shape our national identity.
The Degrassi series illustrate television's tremendous capacity to bring us together and influence our collective imagination. For nearly three decades, millions of viewers, particularly young viewers, have tuned in to watch these series, identifying with fictional trials and challenges that often reflect their own reality. Touching viewers around the world, Degrassi has served as a forum for discussion and helped open the lines of communication between adults and youth.
Linda Schuyler was invested into the Order of Canada in 1993 in recognition of her role as the creator and producer of Degrassi Junior High. This year, she is being honoured with the Anthony Minghella Memorial Award in recognition of her significant contribution to Canada's screen industry. Together, the Degrassi series--including The Kids of Degrassi Street, Degrassi Junior High, Degrassi High, Degrassi Talks and Degrassi: The Next Generation--have won two International Emmys, 16 Gemini Awards, two Prix Jeunesses, as well as many other honours from festivals around the world.
On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I want to congratulate Linda Schuyler on winning this year's Anthony Minghella Memorial Award and commend the Canadian Screen Training Centre's efforts to recognize outstanding contributions to Canada's audiovisual industry.
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
