OTTAWA, August 15, 2014
Today is National Acadian Day. The first permanent French colony in Canada was founded in Acadia. More than 400 years later, Acadians continue to contribute to our country’s economic, cultural and social vitality and live in every province and territory in Canada.
Since 1881, the Acadian people have celebrated National Acadian Day on August 15. I invite all Canadians to be Acadian for a day and join in this celebration and commemoration of the rich history of the Acadian community.
As we approach the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, it is important to provide Canadians opportunities to learn more about Canada and our country’s history. On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I encourage you to explore and appreciate the unique heritage that brings us together and makes us so proud to be Canadian.
Through such initiatives as the Roadmap for Canada’s Official Languages 2013–2018, our Government is proud to support minority official-language communities, which ensure that English- and FrenchCanadian language and culture are alive and well from coast to coast to coast.
To all my Acadian friends, “Bonne fête nationale.”
Marisa Monnin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
