Harper Government Invests in Commemoration of Aboriginal People's Contribution in War of 1812

BATCHAWANA BAY, ON, Oct. 2, 2012 /CNW/ - An investment by the Government of Canada will enable the community of Batchawana Bay to commemorate the 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812. Support for Nebenaigoching Heritage Inc. was announced today by Bryan Hayes, Member of Parliament (Sault Ste. Marie), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

With this funding, Nebenaigoching Heritage Inc. will recreate a ceremonial vest worn by Chief White Crane, a War of 1812 decorated Chief. It will also organize a Thanksgiving Day Honour Fest and Round Dance for October 8, 2013. This formal event, with invited dignitaries, elders and school groups, will recreate the ceremony organized by the community when Chief White Crane left for the War, and it will pay tribute to his accomplishments.

"This year marks the start of the five-year countdown to Canada's 150^th birthday in 2017," said Minister Moore.  "Our Government is proud to invest in projects that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians. On the road to 2017, let us continue to celebrate all of the things that make Canada the united, prosperous and free country it is today."

"Aboriginal Peoples who fought alongside the English- and French-speaking militia and the British Navy to repel the American invasion were strong allies and played a crucial role during the War of 1812," said Mr. Hayes. "Our Government's investment will ensure that our community and Canadians recognize the exceptional figures and events of our past that shaped Canada into the country we know today."

"Thanks to the Government of Canada for the valuable support through the 1812 Commemorative Fund for our Brothers From the North project," said Bee Jackson, Curator for Nebenaigoching Heritage Inc. "Only with this support can we complete a replica of a historical vest from the War of 1812. The activities planned will enable us to educate our school children and our community on our local contribution to this historical War and will allow us to join Canadians in commemorating this important event."

Nebenaigoching Heritage Inc. is an organization created to support the descendants of Chief Nebenaigoching and his band through the preservation and promotion of traditions, management of the collection and sponsorship of literary, musical and other educational and cultural events.

The Government of Canada has provided $21,290 ($7,330 in 2012-2013 and $13,960 in 2013-2014) in funding through Canadian Heritage's 1812 Commemoration Fund. The Fund supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding of the importance of this conflict.

Visit 1812.gc.ca to learn more about the 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

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Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage 
and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
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(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)