Harper Government Boosts Tourism by Investing in War of 1812 Commemorations in Saskatchewan

WHITECAP, SK, March 19, 2012 /CNW/ - The Whitecap Dakota First Nation and residents from surrounding communities will be able to take part in important commemorations for the 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada. Support was announced today by the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification and Member of Parliament (Blackstrap), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

With this investment, the Whitecap Dakota First Nation will research and plan for commemorative activities related to the War of 1812 that will recognize the important part played by the Dakota and other Aboriginal communities.

"Canada would not exist had the American invasion of 1812-1814 not been repelled; for that reason, the War of 1812 was a defining chapter in our history," said Minister Moore. "We invite all Canadians to learn more about this important part of our past and to take part in many of the activities and events that will pay tribute to our heroes."

"The Dakota First Nation was a military ally of the British during the American Revolution and helped defeat the Americans in the War of 1812," said Minister Yelich. "This support will help Canadians better understand this important moment of our heritage and commemorate the contribution of Aboriginal peoples to the history of Saskatchewan."

"The War of 1812 was a defining moment in Canada's history," said Chief Darcy Bear of the Whitecap Dakota Nation. "It is often overlooked that the Dakota people played a critical role in this historic achievement, so it is important to remind ourselves of these events and of the fact that First Nations are an integral part of the fabric of this country."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $49,999 through Canadian Heritage's War of 1812 Commemoration Fund. The Fund supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding among Canadians of the importance of this moment in our history.

For more information, visit 1812.gc.ca.

(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]

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