Minister of Canadian Heritage Announces National Gathering on Aboriginal Artistic Expression
OTTAWA, June 5, 2002 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps today announced the first National Gathering on Aboriginal Artistic Expression, to be held from June 17 to19, in Ottawa, Ontario and Gatineau, Quebec. This national event will provide a valuable forum to share knowledge and improve dialogue among Aboriginal artists, performers, arts entrepreneurs, federal departments and agencies, and the private sector."I am very excited about this important conference," said Minister Copps. "This event demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to preserve and develop Aboriginal arts and culture, by strengthening our country's cultural infrastructure and continuing to support Aboriginal artists and entrepreneurs through all Government programs."
"Aboriginal arts and culture have been and remain a fundamental element of Canadian culture, and form part of the foundation upon which Canada's diversity is built. Preserving Aboriginal culture and encouraging its full expression help to promote economic development and also to build pride among Aboriginal communities and among all Canadians," added Minister Copps.
The conference will bring together more than 250 people from across Canada, who will participate, over a three-day period, in roundtable discussions and workshops that will address key issues facing Aboriginal artists, performers and arts entrepreneurs. The Gathering is also an opportunity for participating Government departments and agencies, such as the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs (DIAND), Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC), the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), and Telefilm Canada, to increase awareness of the programs and initiatives that are in place to support Aboriginal artistic expression.
The National Gathering on Aboriginal Expression is the first of a series of three conferences. A conference on Aboriginal Tourism will be held in 2003, and a national conference on Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge, in 2004, will mark the conclusion of the International Decade of the World's Indigenous People.
For further information about the National Gathering visit www.expressions.gc.ca
Information:
Kerry Edmonds
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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