Member of Parliament John Weston Announces Support for Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival

SQUAMISH, BC, Nov. 8, 2013 /CNW/ - John Weston, Member of Parliament (West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country), today announced support for the 2^nd Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival. He made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

"The Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival is not only a source of civic pride, but also helps to stimulate the economy and provide support for local tourism," said Mr. Weston. "My thanks to the many volunteers who are dedicating countless hours organizing next year's festival. I know that it will be a great success."

Funding will support the planning and delivery of the Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival, which will run from May 9 to 10, 2014. The Festival celebrates and commemorates the history of the region and its people. Activities include live music, First Nations performers and displays of traditional artwork, Bhangra dancers and heritage talks.

"Our Government understands the important role that local festivals play in instilling pride and celebrating our collective identity," said Minister Glover. "This festival in Squamish will allow Canadians from all walks of life to connect with arts, culture, and First Nations and Métis traditions."

"The Squamish Historical Society is grateful to be receiving this grant. Over two days, the Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival will engage the entire community in showcasing our past, present and future through student engagement, First Nation stories and workshops,  guest speakers, presentations, performances and so much more," said Bianca Peters, President of the Squamish Historical Society. "The year 2014 marks the 50^th anniversary of the incorporation of the District of Squamish. The Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival will be an anchor event to kick off the community's celebrations."

The Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival is organized and presented by the Squamish Historical Society, a volunteer-based, non-profit organization. Its mission is to gather, preserve and showcase the history of Squamish and the surrounding areas of Howe Sound in British Columbia.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $12,500 through the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.

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SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

For more information (media only), please contact:

Marisa Monnin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Anna Gravelle
A/Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-6504

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.)