/R E P E A T -- Dr. Stephen R. Inglis named Executive Director of
Aanischaaukamikw a cultural institute dedicated to Cree traditions and
knowledge/
MONTREAL, March 1 /CNW Telbec/ - The Board of Directors of the Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute takes pride in appointing Stephen Inglis as Executive Director. "An experienced museum executive and outstanding professional with a wealth of knowledge in aboriginal collections, the appointment of Stephen Inglis is of inestimable value!" says Dianne Reid, President and CEO of Aanischaaukamikw. "His expertise will be invaluable in the creation and promotion of Aanischaaukamikw."
A substantial economic impact on the Cree Communities and the region
The Cree Nation also proudly announces the construction of Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute, a strategic centre in Oujé-Bougoumou, Quebec. The 30,150 sq. ft facility will include 3,000 sq. ft in exhibit space, 2,250 sq. ft of performance space, a documentation / resource centre, state-of-the-art collection storage (including archaeology) and space for 42 staff as well as the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association (COTA) and Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association (CNACA). During construction, 115 jobs will be created throughout Eeyou Istchee, including 68 long-term operations and 11 visitor-support jobs.
"Aanischaaukamikw will attract Crees, other First Nations and non-native tourists from Canada", says Stephen Inglis, "it will also appeal to Europeans drawn to the unique life, traditions and culture of Eastern James Bay Crees." With over 86,000 visitors to James Bay yearly, the museum will become a focal point for travel within the area.
Tapping into a profitable network
Stephen Inglis is connected to a network of museum professionals throughout the world. "The future of Aanischaaukamikw is filled with promise", he states, "and I am determined to build and strengthen its impact. As a museum, it will generate tourism dollars, as a cultural center, it will be a vital link to communities."
Significant cultural enrichment
Dr. Matthew Coon Come, Grand Chief of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) said: "Aanischaaukamikw is the embodiment of a vision that originated 15 years ago; a living showcase of our heritage, roots and the very foundation of our beliefs, culture and language."
Dedicated to Cree heritage and traditions and a link to Cree communities, the Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute, at a cost of $15 million, will be officially inaugurated in the fall of 2011 in Oujé-Bougoumou, Quebec. Stephen Inglis, whose mandate began on February 22, 2010, will be the driving force behind the museum and a rich addition to the cultural enhancement of the Cree Nation.
For further information: Nora Tétreault, Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute, (514) 861-6329; Public Relations: Caroline Sabbagh, Créa Communications, (514) 284-0402, [email protected]
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