Harper Government Supports the Pictou Landing Powwow Committee

Pictou Landing, Nova Scotia, March 14, 2012 – Members of First Nations communities and other residents of Nova Scotia will be able to experience traditional Aboriginal culture and heritage, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada. This was announced today by the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament (Central Nova), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Funding will enable the Pictou Landing Powwow Committee to promote Aboriginal culture during the Pictou Landing First Nation 21st Annual Powwow in June. The work of more than a hundred artists will be showcased during this four-day celebration, which will feature traditional Aboriginal drumming and dance performances.“Gatherings like this bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to the quality of life of our communities,” said Minister MacKay. “This project at Pictou Landing will provide great opportunities for residents and visitors to learn more about the Aboriginal culture and history of the area and its people.”

“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in events like the Pictou Landing Powwow to ensure that Canada’s rich heritage is preserved for future generations,” said Minister Moore. “By supporting this event, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage.”

“The Pictou Landing 21st Powwow Committee is grateful that the Government of Canada supports our initiative to preserve our culture and heritage,” said Frances Nicholas, Chairperson of the Pictou Landing Powwow Committee. “Our annual powwow is an opportunity to celebrate our unique culture with the community.”

The Pictou Landing Powwow Committee is a local, unincorporated non-profit organization run by volunteers and dedicated to the preservation of Pictou Landing First Nation history and traditions.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $6,500 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.

For more information (media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca