Harper Government Helps Commemorate the War of 1812 in Haldimand County

CAYUGA, ON, July 30, 2012 /CNW/ - An investment from the Government of Canada will encourage Canadians to learn more about the War of 1812 and its significance in shaping the Canada we know today. Funding for Haldimand County was announced today by the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Member of Parliament (Haldimand-Norfolk), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

With this support, Haldimand County will undertake a variety of educational activities that will highlight local War of 1812 history. Activities include the creation of a map of War of 1812 sites found in the county, an 1812-themed Heritage Day workshop, and a re-enactment of the Battle of Nanticoke that will be streamed live in schools to allow for interaction between students and re-enactors.

"The 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812 is one of the defining moments in our history that will lead us to Canada's 150^th birthday in 2017," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud to invest in projects that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians. On the road to 2017, let us continue to celebrate all of the things that make Canada the united, prosperous, and free country we are today."

"Our Government understands the importance of educating Canadians of all ages about the historical significance of the War of 1812," said Minister Finley. "With this investment, we hope to encourage Canadians, especially our young people, to take pride in our traditions and our shared history."

"Haldimand County has a significant story to tell with regard to the War of 1812," said Don Boyle, Chief Administrative Officer, Haldimand County. "We are excited to take part in these initiatives that will help us tell Haldimand's story and wish to thank the Government of Canada for the grant award."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $22,000 to Haldimand County through Canadian Heritage's War of 1812 Commemoration Fund. The Fund supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding of the importance of this conflict.

Visit 1812.gc.ca to learn more about the 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812.

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

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

For more information (media only), please contact: 
Sébastien Gariépy
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Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
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Media Relations
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