A Media Release from Niagara Region
Niagara Region unveils new logo for this year's "Cultural Capital" Program. Image courtesy of Niagara Region.
March 21, 2012 – Niagara’s 2012 Cultural Capital of Canada Program was officially launched today at a ceremony at Niagara Region Headquarters attended by Niagara Falls MP and Minister of Justice the Honourable Rob Nicholson, Niagara Region Chair Gary Burroughs, and a number of Niagara’s political and cultural leaders.
The Government of Canada officially designated Niagara Region as a Cultural Capital of Canada for 2012 on October 14, 2011.“This is an exciting year of cultural celebration in Niagara with a program of 26 events, activities, performances, art installations and more, all across the region,” said Chair Burroughs.“Everyone is invited to join in our year of celebration!”
Guided by the theme Crossing Boundaries: Niagara’s Creative Spirit, Niagara’s program crosses the spectrum of cultural expression including contemporary art exhibits; 1812 bicentennial celebrations and interpretations; dance; a newly commissioned choral work; digital and multi-media exhibits; a new play; and cultural events for and by aboriginal, multicultural and francophone communities, youth, and more.
The Government of Canada and Niagara Region together, through the Cultural Capitals of Canada 2012 program, are investing $2.295 million to celebrate and build Niagara’s rich and diverse cultural community and experiences.
“Our Government has made unprecedented investments in the arts, and we appreciate the tireless work of individuals in the Niagara Region to promote Canadian culture,” said Minister Nicholson.“ I applaud the Niagara Region’s efforts to commemorate the War of 1812, which represents a defining moment in the history of our nation.”
Niagara Regional chair Gary Burroughs concurred.“Niagara’s Cultural Capital of Canada program is building a legacy to further strengthen and deepen Niagara’s cultural community and showcase its contribution to our region’s quality of life and visitor experience,” said Mr. Burroughs.
Recognizing that cultural vitality is an essential component of community sustainability, Niagara Regional Council adopted its first Culture Plan in 2010.The Niagara Culture Plan focuses on strategic actions aimed at strengthening Niagara’s creative economy, creative places, creative people and creative identity.The completion of this Plan was a critical component for Niagara’s successful application to be a Cultural Capital of Canada.
“The purpose of the Culture Plan is to support the creative economy and development of the creative cultural sector,” said Councillor Douglas Joyner, Niagara Region Culture Committee Co-Chair.“Niagara’s Cultural Capital of Canada program is bringing the Culture Plan to life, stimulating our creative sector and enriching our communities.”
The launch featured an overview of the program, unveiling of the Niagara logo, and an opportunity for guests to learn more about the individual projects from the project leaders. A website was also unveiled that will offer more information about the program: niagaraculture2012.ca
“The Cultural Capital of Canada designation is national recognition of the incredible cultural depth and diversity we enjoy here in Niagara,” said Joe Henriques, Co-Chair of Niagara’s Culture Committee. “This recognition gives Niagara the opportunity to share our stories through our own voices and visions. We have a lot to commemorate, create, and celebrate in Niagara, and we look forward to doing so with each other and the world throughout the coming year.”
Niagara’s Cultural Capital of Canada program is providing new opportunities for residents and visitors to experience Niagara’s cultural attractions and assets; improving access to cultural activities for children and youth through school and after-school programs; increasing awareness of Niagara’s history, identity and creativity among provincial, national, and international audiences; and creating a legacy that, in conjunction with Niagara’s comprehensive Niagara Culture Plan, will support the region’s creative workers and cultural industries.
About the Cultural Capital of Canada Designation
The Cultural Capital of Canada designation is awarded on the basis of a candidate community’s achievements and its ongoing commitment to culture. Designated municipalities must also propose a series of projects that celebrate culture and integrate it into overall community planning.The program’s objective is to stimulate sustained community support for culture.
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