QUÉBEC CITY, June 1, 2012 /CNW/ - Québec City residents and visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the War of 1812, thanks to funding from the Government of Canada. The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Member of Parliament (Lévis-Bellechasse), made this announcement today on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
"The War of 1812 was a decisive moment in our country's history," said Minister Moore. "Without this war, the Canadian Francophonie would not exist. I invite all Canadians to explore this chapter in our history and participate in the many activities that pay tribute to our heroes."
With this financial assistance, the Rendez-vous naval de Québec, which is taking place from June 7 to 10, 2012, will mark the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. Among the activities planned for the occasion are an exhibition at the Naval Museum of Québec entitled Evolution 1812-2012, which presents the technological development of ships; a multimedia aquatic show called The Memory of Water; and a commemorative ceremony.
"By supporting these activities, our Government is giving Canadians and tourists an excellent opportunity to appreciate this important moment in our history," said Minister Blaney. "We are proud to help celebrate the heroic efforts of our ancestors and to tell the story of the Canada we know today."
"The Rendez-vous naval de Québec is very pleased about the financial contribution from the Government of Canada, which will enable us to mark the War of 1812 in a completely unique way in Québec City," said Valérie Dion, President of the Rendez-vous naval de Québec. "I invite residents to take part in this commemorative edition, which will welcome 11 ships from Germany, France, the United States, and Canada, and will be accompanied by performances, organized activities, and exhibitions."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $185,000 through the 1812 Commemoration Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. The Fund supports community-based projects that seek to foster greater awareness and understanding among Canadians of the importance of the War of 1812 in our history.
(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)
(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]
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