Government of Canada announces funding for the Conseil interculturel de l'Outaouais
GATINEAU, December 9, 2003 -- Member of Parliament (HullÑAylmer) Marcel Proulx, on behalf of Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women) Jean Augustine, today announced funding of $29,408 for the Conseil interculturel de l'Outaouais for its "Les samedis du rapprochement" project."The integration of all Canadians into society will help ensure our country's future prosperity," said Mr. Proulx. "Congratulations to all the employees and volunteers of the Conseil interculturel de l'Outaouais for their years of excellent work with the region's diverse cultural communities."
"One of the Government of Canada's priorities is to ensure that all Canadians have the opportunity to actively participate in our society," said Secretary of State Augustine. "That is why I am pleased to announce this funding for an initiative intended to fight prejudice, improve understanding among cultures, and allow Canadian citizens of diverse origins to reach positions of authority."
This funding will allow the Conseil interculturel de l'Outaouais to organize two series of complementary activities that encourage the integration of cultural communities into Canadian society. The organization will hold a series of awareness-raising information sessions called "Parole à tous," whose objective is to dispel ethnic stereotypes and encourage intercultural exchange. The Conseil will also launch training programs called "Les Décideurs" to prepare leaders within various ethnocultural communities to sit on boards of directors or to participate in consulting groups. Follow-up support will help ensure that these leaders succeed in finding positions of authority in their areas of interest.
The total funding of $29,408 will be distributed in two instalments over fiscal years 2003Ñ2004 and 2004Ñ2005.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Multiculturalism Program. Canada's Multiculturalism Policy promotes full and equitable participation in Canadian society by people of all origins, as well as interactions between individuals and communities of different origins. It also encourages public institutions to be respectful and inclusive of Canada's multicultural character.
Funding for this initiative was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Adam Burns
Press Secretary
Office of the Secretary of State
(Multiculturalism) (Status of Women)
(819) 997-9900
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