Government Invests in Grand-Pré 2017

Government is investing in a project that will commemorate the 150th anniversary of Confederation by celebrating the historic relationship between the Mi’kmaq and Acadians.

Premier Stephen McNeil announced $300,000 in funding from the 150 Forward Fund to Grand-Pré 2017 – A Peace and Unity Gathering of the Mi’kmaq and Acadian Nations, today, March 17.

“I’m pleased to announce government support for a project that aligns closely with Nova Scotia’s Culture Action Plan and government’s priority to celebrate Canada 150,” said Premier McNeil. “This brings communities together, celebrates creativity, and promotes cultural diversity and inclusion.”

Grand-Pré 2017 is a series of cultural and educational events presented by the Ulnooweg Development Group. They take place during a four-day, multi-disciplinary festival in August 2017.

"I believe Grand-Pré 2017 is a transformative event on many levels that will bring national exposure to the historic relationship between the Mi'kmaw and Acadian people,” said Morley Googoo, regional chief, Assembly of First Nations, representing Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador. “We as the Mi'kmaw First Nation have taken a proactive approach in promoting and integrating reconciliation at events that unite and educate through song, dance, culture and tradition.”

Federal funding has also been provided through four departments and agencies: the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the Department of Canadian Heritage, Parks Canada, and Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada.

“Grand-Pré 2017 will provide the entire country with a wonderful showcase of the values on which Canada was founded and will commemorate and celebrate a friendship that has endured for more than 400 years - a relationship that helped forge our country,” said Marie-Claude Rioux, executive director, Acadian Federation of Nova Scotia and co-chair of Grand-Pré 2017.

For more information on programming and schedules visit http://www.grandpre2017.ca/.

Nova Scotians are celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday by remembering our role in creating and shaping Confederation. The drive and innovation we have demonstrated in the past have yielded accomplishments that make us optimistic about our future.