OTTAWA, Aug. 10, 2017 /CNW/ - Her Excellency Sharon Johnston invites you to 'take off your mask' and combat the stigma associated with mental illness during the Masquerade for Mental Health on Saturday, September 9, 2017, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at Rideau Hall.
"Nobody should ever need to hide behind a mask, but wearing one is often easier than trying to overcome the stigma related to mental illness," explains Her Excellency. "This event will bring together numerous organizations that I have had the privilege of visiting during my travels throughout Canada. The Masquerade will highlight innovative best practices as well as the prevention and intervention strategies being implemented in various parts of the country. I hope that this event will engage and educate as well as send a message of hope to those affected by mental illness. Let us stand in solidarity and take off our masks!"
During this unique event made possible through the support of Bell Let's Talk, the grounds of Rideau Hall will be transformed into a lively fair where the public will be invited to take part in various activities and interactive platforms and to enjoy a live concert with performances by Canadian artists. All activities are free of charge.
6 p.m.
Mental Health Community Zone
Rideau Hall Grounds
Bringing together more than 40 mental health organizations from across the country, the Community Zone encourages the public to engage with mental health partners in an interactive setting. The zone will feature mental health organizations providing a wide breadth of information from how to support and care for loved ones, to empowering young people to promote their own well-being as well as others.
Guests will be invited to create their own masks and to wear them for the evening portion of the masquerade.
8 p.m.
Live Concert
Rideau Hall grounds
A live concert, will feature Indigenous and French- and English-speaking performers who will encourage the public to speak openly about mental illness. During the evening, guests will be invited to take off their masks as a symbol of acceptance and solidarity.
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SOURCE Governor General of Canada
Media: Julie Rocheleau, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-990-2997, 613-302-0249 (cell), [email protected]
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