Vancouver, British Columbia (December 7, 2009) - At a preview event for the 2010 Aboriginal Pavilion today in Vancouver, the Government of Canada demonstrated its role as a proud partner with the Four Host First Nations and the Vancouver Organizing Committee in establishing this very special Canadian attraction.
The Honourable Nancy Greene Raine, Senator, participated in the ceremonies on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians.
"The outstanding Métis, Inuit and First Nations businesses, artists and entrepreneurs that visitors will meet while exploring the Pavilion will be a wonderful reflection of the energy, drive and talent of Aboriginal peoples in Canada," said Senator Greene Raine.
"A primary focus of the Four Host First Nations and VANOC has been to work with our federal partners to reach out to welcome and involve the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada - other First Nations, Inuit and Métis people - in these Games. Through the range of art and entertainment programming, Artisan Village and Aboriginal Business Showcase, the 2010 Aboriginal Pavilion gives us a wonderful opportunity to showcase the best of our Aboriginal selves to the rest of the world, thanks to the generous and substantial support from the people of Canada," said Tewanee Joseph, Chief Executive Officer of the Four Host First Nations Society.
The Government of Canada is contributing $2.9 million to the Four Host First Nations Society towards the Aboriginal Pavilion initiative. The contribution supports construction and operation of the overall Pavilion complex, and helps to showcase the businesses, achievements and cultures of all Aboriginal heritage groups in Canada - First Nations, Métis and Inuit - through the Aboriginal Business Showcase and Artisan Village.
"Hosting the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is a unique opportunity for Canada to showcase our excellence and innovation to the world," said the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), speaking from Ottawa. "The 2010 Aboriginal Pavilion will be an incredible chance for Canadian and international visitors to experience and celebrate the cultural richness of Aboriginal people."
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada is working to ensure that Canada's investment leaves a legacy of economic and social benefits for all Aboriginal peoples.
For more information, please contact:
Minister's Office
Michelle Yao
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
(819) 997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
953-1160
