Minister of State Augustine Hosts Roundtable on African Canadian Heritage
OTTAWA, March 26, 2004 -- The Honourable Jean Augustine, Minister of State (Multiculturalism and Status of Women), today hosted a one-day roundtable on African Canadian heritage. This responds in part to recommendations made during consultations for the 2003 Forum on Diversity and Culture.The roundtable, which comprised some 50 participants, included representatives from organizations who are keepers and promoters of African Canadian heritage, such as historians, community leaders, academics, and media. Also present were senior officials of the Multiculturalism, Heritage and Canadian Studies programs, and of the Canadian Heritage portfolio agencies, such as the Canadian Heritage Information Network, the Canadian Conservation Institute, the National Archives of Canada, and the National Film Board of Canada.
"Our objective today is to find ways to ensure that the contributions of African Canadians to our country's history are fully incorporated into the programs, policies, and initiatives of the Department of Canadian Heritage and its portfolio agencies," said Minister of State Augustine. "This is important because it is our joint mandate to promote and to share Canada's history among all Canadians."
The Government of Canada's Multiculturalism Program falls under the mandate of the Department of Canadian Heritage. Canada's Multiculturalism Policy promotes full and equitable participation from people of all origins in Canadian society, as well as interaction between diverse individuals and communities. It also encourages public institutions to be respectful and inclusive of Canada's multicultural character.
Information:
Fred Sherman
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of State
(Multiculturalism and Status of Women)
(819) 997-9900
[ Media Room ]
