LACOLLE, QC, March 19, 2012 /CNW/ - Quebecers will be able to learn more about the War of 1812 and the heroic role played by Francophones during the conflict, thanks to investments from the Government of Canada. This was announced today by the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Member of Parliament (Lévis-Bellechasse), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
"The War of 1812 is a decisive event in our country's history," said Minister Moore. "Without the War of 1812, the French fact in our country simply would not exist. We invite all Quebecers to learn more about this key chapter in our history and to take part in many of the activities and events that will pay tribute to our heroes."
With this support, the Municipality of Lacolle will undertake activities that focus on events and people that have had a significant impact on the history of the Haut-Richelieu. Projects include creating an 1812 interpretation site, publishing a historic journal, and developing educational tools. Support will also be provided to the Association for Canadian Studies to create educational material that will examine the role of Francophones in the conflict.
"The importance of the Haut-Richelieu and French-speaking militias in the outcome of the War of 1812 cannot be denied," said Minister Blaney. "These commemorative activities will be great opportunities for Quebecers to learn about the events and figures that have marked this decisive moment in our history."
"We greatly value the opportunity offered to us by the Department of Canadian Heritage to mark the anniversary of the War of 1812 by increasing awareness of its historic importance and the significance to our identity," said Jack Jedwab, Executive Director of the Association for Canadian Studies.
The Government of Canada has provided total funding of $265,750. The Municipality of Lacolle is receiving $209,500 through the War of 1812 Commemoration Fund, which supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding among Canadians of the importance of this moment in our history. The Association for Canadian Studies is receiving $56,250 through the Canadian Studies Program, which supports the development and/or enhancement of learning materials, the organization of learning and developmental experiences, and the establishment and maintenance of networks that give Canadians opportunities to enhance their understanding of Canada, thus building an informed and engaged citizenry.
For more information, visit 1812.gc.ca.
(media only), please contact:
Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[email protected]
(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)
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