RED DEER, Alberta, June 2, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Earl Dreeshen, Member of Parliament (Red Deer), today announced funding for l'Association canadienne-française de l'Alberta, Red Deer region.
With this funding, the Association will develop resource materials to be shared at the next Rendez-vous de la Francophonie. This information will offer a distinctly Francophone perspective on key historical events and people that contributed to the development and growth of Métis culture in Alberta. The Rendez-vous de la Francophonie is an annual week-long celebration of Francophone culture across the country.
"The history of the Métis people represents an important part of Canada's rich cultural fabric," said Minister Moore. "L'Association canadienne-française de l'Alberta, Red Deer region, is ensuring that the people of the area learn about the Métis culture, its origins and development, growth, and important contribution to our lives."
"This exciting project will give people in the region an opportunity to participate in activities in both official languages and learn about the rich Métis heritage of the area," said Mr. Dreeshen.
"We are proud to receive a contribution for this project. It provides us with insight into an often misunderstood or forgotten past that has nonetheless had a lasting impact on Canadian identity. The materials produced will be exhibited during the 2011 Francophonie Weeks," said Nancy Desbiens, Red Deer region Executive Director.
L'Association canadienne-française de l'Alberta, Red Deer region, promotes the cultural, social, economic, and intellectual well-being of Francophones in Alberta and works to strengthen ties within the Francophone community. The Association also promotes pride and cultural expression among Francophones in Alberta, along with other organizations in the province.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,000 through the Community Life component of the Development of Official-Language Communities Program. This program of the Department of Canadian Heritage aims to foster the development of Canada's minority Anglophone and Francophone communities and enable them to participate fully in all aspects of Canadian life.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Perry Boldt
A/Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-5739
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
