HALIFAX, June 29, 2013 /CNW/ - On the start of the Canada Day long weekend, to mark the first-ever Canada History Week, the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and Member of Parliament for Port Moody-Westwood-Port Coquitlam, visited one of Canada's National Historic Sites, the Halifax Citadel.
"The Halifax Citadel endures as a gateway to Canada's military heritage, a passage to nationhood, and a place where visitors can experience 200 years of history and learn an important chapter of Canada's story," said Minister Moore. "This site and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 are just two of the many wonderful historical centres Halifax has to offer."
Located in the heart of downtown Halifax and close to the bustling waterfront, the impressive star-shaped fort is one of Canada's most popular landmarks. The Halifax Citadel protected the most strategic natural harbour in North America from its founding, to the War of 1812 and through two World Wars. Today, guided tours, soldiers, period rooms, bagpipes and the noon-day cannon help visitors step back in time to life in a 19th century fort.
"Our country is filled with many notable historical places such as the Halifax Citadel. Parks Canada is the proud steward of 167 national historic sites across Canada," said the Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of the Environment, Minister responsible for Parks Canada and Member of Parliament for Thornhill. "I invite everyone to appreciate and connect with these Canadian treasures and learn more about the history of the remarkable men, women, places and events that have made our country great."
"We have an unprecedented opportunity to celebrate our history and the achievements that define who we are as Canadians, especially as we approach Canada's 150th birthday in 2017," said Minister Moore. "During Canada History Week, I invite all Canadians to take the opportunity to learn about the people, places and events that have made Canada the united, strong, and free country we are today."
Beginning on Canada Day 2013, Canadians from coast to coast to coast will mark the first-ever Canada History Week. This week is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about this country's rich history.
To learn more about Canada History Week, visit www.canadianheritage.gc.ca.
SOURCE: Canadian Heritage
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For more information (media only), please contact:
Sébastien Gariépy
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Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
Media Relations
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819-994-9101
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(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)
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