Government of Canada Announces Funding for the Fraser-Fort George Museum's New Project: Challenging Racism Past and Present
PRINCE GEORGE, March 17, 2003 -- Herb Dhaliwal, Minister of Natural Resources and Member of Parliament(VancouverÑSouth-Burnaby), on behalf of Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women) Jean Augustine, today announced funding of $15,000 for the Fraser-Fort George Museum Society's new exhibit and education program, Challenging Racism Past and Present.
"The Government of Canada ensures equality for all Canadians by providing funding to organizations dedicated to advancing the objectives of Canada's Multiculturalism Policy," said Secretary of State Augustine.
"This project will focus on the history of the Chinese community and the vital role this community has played in the development of Prince George and Northern British Columbia," said Mr. Dhaliwal. "This project will also serve as the basis for community dialogue that will foster awareness and understanding."
The project will involve the Chinese Canadian Community in the development of the exhibition, through research, interviews, and loans of documents and artifacts. Local Chinese youth drawn from area high schools will act as Youth Curators. They will hold community discussion forums, conduct polls, and gather additional information to provide the context, past and present, for the new Museum exhibit.
This multicultural history exhibit, developed by the Fraser-Fort George Museum, highlights the lessons that can be learned from the community's ethnic history. Last year, the Fraser-Fort George Museum attracted 125 000 visitors. It is expected that the new exhibit, which will be housed in the Museum's History Hall, will draw a great number of visitors.
Canada's Multiculturalism Policy promotes full and equitable participation in Canadian society of people of all origins, as well as interaction between diverse individuals and communities of different origins. It also encourages public institutions to be respectful and inclusive of Canada's multicultural character.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Multiculturalism Program.
Funding for the initiative was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Naline Rampersad
Press Secretary
Office of the Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women)
(819) 997-9900
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