VANCOUVER, September 4, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Member of Parliament (Vancouver Island North), today announced funding for the Asian-Canadian Special Events Association (ACSEA).
This funding will support ACSEA in presenting the 21st annual TaiwanFest, a diverse festival that showcases contemporary artistic expressions and presents programs that reflect today's Taiwan. TaiwanFest is taking place from September 4 to 6, 2010, and will give local audiences opportunities to attend art displays, films, and music and dance performances.
"TaiwanFest will provide residents with access to a variety of cultural and artistic experiences, while strengthening community ties," said Minister Moore.
"Our Government recognizes the value of local arts and heritage activities in showcasing our national identity," said Minister Duncan. "Events like this play an important role in engaging Canadians through performing and visual arts while celebrating Canada's diversity."
"We are extremely honoured to receive this financial contribution from Canadian Heritage," said Charlie Wu, Managing Director of ACSEA. "TELUS TaiwanFest is the now the largest Mandarin-English speaking event in the country, engaging over 500 volunteers and several community organizations. With this support, we are showcasing the contemporary Taiwanese landscape for Vancouver residents and visitors alike to enjoy."
ACSEA is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging cultural exchanges, establishing partnerships between organizations, and showcasing their diversity. The organization also aims to encourage innovative approaches to artistic expression and cultural presentations, as well as to provide a sufficient platform where tradition can be celebrated.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,900 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
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
