WINNIPEG, August 4, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Rod Bruinooge, Member of Parliament (Winnipeg South), today announced funding for The Manitoba Museum's project Sharing.
Funding will assist the Museum in the development of educational kits focussing on elements of Cree culture and traditions. These kits will be circulated in school districts in northern Manitoba and used in teacher training by the University College of the North. This project is undertaken in partnership with the Education Authority of the Opaskwayak Cree Nation; the University College of the North; and the Mystery Lake, Kelsey, and Flin Flon school divisions.
The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of Aboriginal heritage," said Mr. Bruinooge. "We are proud to support The Manitoba Museum's project, Sharing, which will bring to light the treasures of our collective heritage and increase awareness and understanding of Canada's rich and diverse cultures."
"This project will encourage the preservation, management, and presentation of Aboriginal cultural heritage," said Mr. Bruinooge. "Our Government is committed to providing Aboriginal young people with culturally focused programs that reinforce attachment to their roots."
"Project Sharing is a wonderful opportunity for The Manitoba Museum to deliver quality programming to residents living in Northern and rural Manitoba," said Claudette Leclerc, Museum CEO. "Connecting with Manitobans in all communities is an important part of our mandate, and we are very pleased that the Government of Canada has partnered with us to achieve this goal."
The Manitoba Museum is the province's largest not-for-profit heritage and science centre. Its mission is to preserve the heritage of Manitoba for present and future generations; to acquire and share knowledge of Manitoba's history, culture and natural world with Manitobans and others; and to encourage discovery, appreciation, and understanding of Manitoba, the world, and the universe.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $106,379 through the Museums Assistance Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides funding to Canadian museums and related institutions for projects that foster excellence in museum activities and that facilitate access to the treasures of our collective heritage.
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Francine D. Lefebvre
Director
Regional Communications
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
Tel.: 204-983-4367
Cell: 204-899-8611
francine.lefebvre@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
