Minister Petitpas Taylor Announces Multiculturalism and ACOA Funding in Moncton
The Atlantic Ballet Atlantique Canada will benefit from federal investment totalling more than $261K for its "Atlantic Immigration Summit" project
MONCTON, Jan. 23, 2018 /CNW/ - Diversity and inclusion are central to who we are. Today, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Health and Member of Parliament (Moncton–Riverview–Dieppe), announced that the Government of Canada is providing more than $261,000 in total funding to support the Atlantic Ballet Atlantique Canada's "Atlantic Immigration Summit" project. Minister Petitpas Taylor made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, and the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
The "Atlantic Immigration Summit" project will involve a new ballet created and danced by a company formed entirely of immigrants. The project also consists of four open-space symposiums targeting immigrant youth and adults of various backgrounds in order to help foster increased understanding and equal opportunities for all citizens.
The project is receiving funding of $82,500 through Inter-Action, the Government of Canada's multiculturalism grants and contributions program, as well as $178,930 under ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund. The Inter-Action program funds community engagement and development projects that promote intercultural understanding and equal opportunities for people of all cultures. The Government of New Brunswick is providing $10,000 towards the initiative.
Projects like this help create bonds between all Canadians by working to eliminate discrimination, racism and prejudice, while also providing opportunities for youth community engagement and uniting people through art, culture or sport. Today's announcement is part of the Atlantic Growth Strategy's commitment to drive economic growth in the region through skilled workforce and immigration initiatives.
Quotes
"Canada's diversity is one of our greatest strengths. Our government is proud to support projects like this, which help promote greater inclusion and equality throughout our society while strengthening our vibrant, diverse communities."
—The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism
"The Government of Canada recognizes the vital role that arts and culture play in our society and the economic benefits it generates. Through ACOA, our government is proud to support the Atlantic Ballet Atlantique Canada's recent project to support diversification in our communities and in turn enhance our regional economy."
— The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
"The medium of dance not only entertains but also has the power to unite. Projects like Atlantic Ballet Atlantique Canada's "Atlantic Immigration Summit" empowers immigrants and new Canadians by fostering intercultural understanding and connecting people with diverse backgrounds. The Canadian Government is proud to fund important and community-building projects such as these."
—The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Health and Member of Parliament (Moncton–Riverview–Dieppe)
"Immigration plays an essential role in growing New Brunswick's economy and enhancing our cultural diversity. Newcomers from all over the world, including other parts of Canada, are considering making New Brunswick their home. Projects like the "Atlantic Immigration Summit" contribute to a better understanding of immigration and the creation of inclusive communities, which benefits all of us."
—The Honourable Gilles LePage, Minister of Labour, Employment and Population Growth – Government of New Brunswick
Quick Facts
Atlantic Ballet Atlantique Canada is the only professional ballet company in Atlantic Canada. It performs high-calibre original ballet theatre productions in the Atlantic region and around the world. The professional company attracts highly skilled dancers and makes a unique and valuable contribution to dance in Canada.
Through the Projects component of the Inter-Action program, the Atlantic Ballet Atlantique Canada is receiving $82,500 over 2 years for the "Atlantic Immigration Summit" project.
Since launching the first round of funding in March 2017, the Projects component of the Inter-Action program has received more than 250 applications from organizations in communities across Canada.
Inter-Action has two components: Projects and Events. The Projects component follows a call-for-applications process and focuses on long-term, multi-year projects that are national in scope.
The Events component accepts applications year-round and provides grants to support and promote community based events.
Associated Links
Inter-Action: Multiculturalism Funding Program – Overview
ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund
Atlantic Canada Growth Strategy
SOURCE Canadian Heritage
For further information: (media only), please contact: Ann Kenney, Senior Communications Officer, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, 506-452-3687; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, 819-994-9101, 1-866-569-6155, [email protected]; Stéphanie Bilodeau, Communications, Government of New Brunswick, 506-453-4090
Share this article