Minister of State Gosal Announces Support for Aboriginal Programming

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Feb. 10, 2015) - Department of Canadian Heritage

The Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (NCCT), on behalf of the Aboriginal Leadership Partners (ALP), will receive $500,000 from the Government of Canada's Community Celebrations Fund to showcase the Indigenous cultures of the Americas at the Toronto 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games.

Through its Federal Cultural Strategy for the Toronto 2015 Games, the Government of Canada will showcase Canadian values and heritage, and enhance engagement in the Americas.

The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), made the announcement today at the NCCT.

Quick Facts

- The Toronto 2015 Pan and Parapan American Games Community Celebrations Fund is a two-year initiative that will support cultural activities throughout Canada in connection with the Toronto 2015 Games.

- The Fund is part of a $6 million Federal Cultural Strategy from the Government of Canada for the Toronto 2015 Games. The Federal Cultural Strategy is part of the Government of Canada's commitment of up to $500 million to the Games.

- The Toronto 2015 Games will be one of the largest multi-sport events ever hosted in Canada and will gather over 10,000 athletes, coaches and officials from across the Americas.

- The ALP, which is made up of local Aboriginal governing bodies and non-profit organizations, will showcase Aboriginal culture and heritage during the period of the 2015 Pan Am Games.

- Funding for the programming will provide about 42,000 participants with an opportunity to experience and celebrate the diverse cultures of the Aboriginal communities who are hosting the Games.

- Canada's Governor General proclaimed that 2015 is the Year of Sport in Canada, and its overarching theme is "Canada: A Leading Sport Nation."

Quotes

"I'm thrilled to announce this important contribution, which will showcase Aboriginal culture and heritage during the Games. Our Government wants to spread the Pan Am spirit and excitement, and today's event is a testament to the unique and entertaining elements the pavilion will bring to the heart of the city."

-The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport)

"The Aboriginal Pavilion will be a celebration of Indigenous activities and culture next summer, and we can't wait to share the rich and diverse talent we've assembled with Torontonians and the many national and international visitors who will be in town for the Games."

-Cynthia Lickers-Sage, Executive Director of the Aboriginal Pavilion

Associated Links

Community Celebration Fund

Native Canadian Centre of Toronto

TO2015

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