Métis Radio Launch Message
The Honourable Andy Scott, PC, MP
Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and
Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians
Ottawa, Ontario,
March 10, 2005
Check against delivery
I'd like to congratulate the Métis Nation of Ontario's Cultural Commission
on the launch of metisradio.fm  . This valuable resource will make the traditional
and current sounds of a vibrant culture available via the Internet.
Canadians, already blessed with a rich diversity of cultures, now enjoy
greater access to the unique sounds of the Métis: fiddle music,
for instance, along with storytelling, and the Michif language. The radio
station will feature traditional and contemporary music, along with stories,
news and information, and other programming produced, recorded and performed
by Métis people from across Canada. There are also plans for programs
broadcast in the Michif language.
The Government of Canada, through the Office of the Federal Interlocutor
for Métis and Non-Status Indians, is pleased to invest $25,000
in Métis Radio to increase the capacity of the Métis community
through bandwidth internet radio. Métis Radio benefits Canadians
in a number of ways. The station will foster a better understanding of
Métis culture and history among the Canadian public; encourage
Métis people to reconnect with, and celebrate their culture; and
ensure that an important culture and traditional knowledge are transferred
to Métis youth for the benefit of future generations.
Métis musicians and artists are recognized and appreciated the
world over; their distinctive approaches to music, dance and other art
forms continue to inform and inspire artists of all cultures. By broadcasting
the delightful sounds of the Métis to listeners around the world,
24 hours a day, metisradio.fm
will support the continued growth of a historic
culture.
I look forward to tuning into Métis Radio, and to listening to
music and voices that are an important part of Canada's cultural mosaic.
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