News release

Nova Scotia, Louisiana Sign Memorandum of Understanding

Acadian Affairs and Francophonie

Nova Scotia and Louisiana will work together and celebrate their shared culture through a new memorandum of understanding (MOU).

Acadian Affairs and Francophonie Minister Colton LeBlanc joined Louisiana’s Lt.-Gov. William H. Nungesser in Baton Rouge today, June 16, to celebrate the partnership.

“Nova Scotia is proud of our long-standing relationship with Louisiana, and we are so pleased to formalize this relationship with a memorandum of understanding,” said Minister LeBlanc. “This partnership will strengthen our cultural ties and create unique opportunities to benefit us all.”

Previous MOUs held by Nova Scotia and Louisiana have resulted in cultural exchanges, mutual promotion of creative sectors and student exchanges with the Université Sainte-Anne.

Both jurisdictions share history related to the Acadian and Cajun communities, which both comprise descendants of coastal communities in France.

Quotes:

“It’s always a pleasure to welcome our friends from Nova Scotia back to Louisiana. Given how much our regions have in common through our Acadian heritage, coastal importance, seafood industries – and our connection through the French language – it makes good sense to combine our efforts to increase economic and cultural opportunities for each other. We look forward to continued conversations with Minister LeBlanc and his team as we work to move forward pursuing promising opportunities.”

– Lt.-Gov. William H. Nungesser, Louisiana

Quick Facts:

  • the MOU will facilitate economic growth and business development, cultural and media exchanges, education, training and research opportunities
  • the MOU aligns with the mandate of the Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie
  • the Province of Nova Scotia and the State of Louisiana have been partners for more than 30 years
  • Southwest Nova Scotia will host the Congrès mondial acadien, an international gathering of Acadian and francophone communities held every five years, in 2024

Additional Resources:

Mandate letter of the Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie: https://novascotia.ca/exec_council/letters-2021/ministerial-mandate-letter-2021-PSC-SNSIS-AAF.pdf

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