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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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FUNDING SUPPORTS FIRST NATIONS LANGUAGE
REVITALIZATION |
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VICTORIA – $1.2 million in funding to support the revitalization of First Nations languages and culture in B.C. was announced today at a National Aboriginal Day celebration that included a ceremonial paddle and traditional First Nations welcome into Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
“We are committed to restoring fluency and literacy in First Nations languages,” said Michael de Jong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. “On National Aboriginal Day, Canadians and British Columbians are coming together to celebrate Aboriginal culture. It’s an important part of our province’s history that needs to be revitalized and preserved for future generations.”
The New Relationship Trust (NRT) is committing $500,000 of the funds to support a comprehensive plan. The NRT is a non-profit, independent organization that supports the development and funding of capacity-building initiatives for B.C. First Nations.
“We are delighted to be part of this worthwhile initiative,” said New Relationship Trust CEO Cliff Fregin. “During our community engagement process last fall, First Nation people throughout the province clearly identified culture and language as top priorities for support.”
The remaining funds will be contributed by the Province, the First Peoples’ Heritage, Language and Culture Council (FPHLCC) and the Aboriginal Head Start Association of BC.
The investment builds on First Nations community priorities expressed through the FPHLCC Language Strategic Plan and voiced during the 2006 First Citizens’ Forum and the New Relationship Trust community consultation process. Specifically, the funding will be used to support:
“Only through continued determination and investment will we be able to ensure that First Nation languages flourish once again in British Columbia,” said First Peoples’ Heritage, Language and Culture Council chair Tyrone McNeil. “Language and culture renewal can have a profound effect in improving the health, self-confidence and pride of Aboriginal youth and adults.”
“The Aboriginal Head Start Association of BC is pleased to be a partner in this very exciting journey of Language and Culture Revitalization,” said Aboriginal Head Start Association of BC executive director Monique Gray Smith. “We look forward to fostering the creation of language and culture immersion programs for both urban and on-reserve children and families. We would like to thank the Province and our partners for their commitment to this very important work and we look forward to our journey ahead.”
“The partnership and commitment to preserve and protect First Nations language and culture for future generations is an essential part of building the New Relationship,” said Shawn Atleo, Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief and member of the First Nations Leadership Council Executive.
The Province is building a new relationship with First Nations, based on mutual respect, reconciliation and recognition of Aboriginal rights. This funding supports the Province’s Pacific Leadership Agenda to conclude treaties and close gaps in health, housing, education, and economic opportunities.
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Contact: |
Deborah Bowman Communications Director Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation 250 953-3211 250 213-3489 (cell) |
Cliff Fregin Chief Executive Officer New Relationship Trust 604 925-3338 |
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Tracey Herbert Executive Director First Peoples' Heritage, Language and Culture Council 250 652-5952 |
Monique Gray Smith Executive Director Aboriginal Head Start Association of BC 250 858-4543 |
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Rhonda Sim Executive Director BC Assembly of First Nations 604 230-6141 (cell) |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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