CALGARY, August 31, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Lee Richardson, Member of Parliament (Calgary Centre), today announced funding for the Quickdraw Animation Society.
This funding will be used to support the Aboriginal Youth Animation Project, which seeks to empower young Aboriginal people through the medium of animation. Participants will learn about the art and science of animation, resulting in short animations and a documentary. At the same time, they will be exposed to traditional stories, Aboriginal languages, and other aspects of Aboriginal culture through interaction with elders, traditional storytellers, and guest speakers.
"Our Government is proud to help Aboriginal youth discover their creativity and learn about their identity," said Minister Moore. "It is great to partner with an organization that helps young people gain knowledge and acquire skills that will contribute to their fulfillment in the years to come."
"I am pleased that our Government supports the work of the Quickdraw Animation Society," said Mr. Richardson. "This project will be a rewarding experience for Aboriginal youth and provide them with an opportunity to express who they are and what they aspire to."
"After the success of last year's program, we are excited to move the Aboriginal Youth Animation Project forward with the continued support of the Government of Canada," said Julia Burns, Executive Director, Quickdraw Animation Society. "This collaborative project will engage youth in new and transformative ventures as it inspires and animates their community."
The Quickdraw Animation Society is a non-profit organization with the mandate to support and encourage the production and appreciation of innovative independent animation, as well as education about it. This non-Aboriginal society has an established partnership with two Aboriginal organizations to deliver this project to support the career and educational goals of Aboriginal youth.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $60,000 under the Urban Multipurpose Aboriginal Youth Centre Initiative of the Department of Canadian Heritage's Aboriginal Peoples' Program. This initiative supports community, culturally-based projects for urban Aboriginal young people to improve their social, economic, and personal prospects and to strengthen their cultural identity.
Stephanie Rea
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
stephanie.rea@pch.gc.ca
Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-6504
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
