Member of Parliament Rodney Weston Announces Support for Asian Heritage Month Celebrations in New Brunswick

SAINT JOHN, Nov. 5, 2013 /CNW/ - Rodney Weston, Member of Parliament (Saint John), on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced support for Asian Heritage Month celebrations taking place in Saint John in May 2014.

"I am pleased to announce this investment from our Government, which will enable the community of Saint John to celebrate Asian Heritage Month," said Mr. Weston. "I commend the organizers, volunteers, and artists for providing residents and visitors with an opportunity to experience our rich Asian cultural heritage."

Funding will support the Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick, Saint John Chapter, in presenting the 7^th annual Asian Heritage Month celebrations. Activities will include traditional dance, musical and vocal performances featuring local artists; cultural displays of Asian art, costumes and heritage; and workshops presented by local cultural groups.

"Our Government knows that Asian cultures and traditions have made outstanding contributions to the building of our country and to the vitality of our communities," said Minister Glover. "This is why we are proud to support the Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick. By organizing these celebrations, the Society is giving Canadians of all backgrounds the opportunity to learn more about Asian Canadians, their history, and their contributions to the growth and prosperity of Canada."

"Investing in Asian Heritage celebration is central to the economic health of communities across New Brunswick, as a large portion of New Brunswick's recent immigrants are from Asian countries," said Dr. Li-Hong Xu, Director of the Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick, Saint John Chapter. "Through Asian Heritage Month celebrations, we build networks, establish a nourished environment for new immigrants to stay, and together we share our rich Asian culture with citizens in our new homeland."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $6,600 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.

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

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SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

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