Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Launch of Celebrate Canada

OTTAWA, June 21, 2013 /CNW/ - Today marks the beginning of Celebrate Canada, an 11-day period of festivities taking place across Canada from June 21 to July 1.

Celebrate Canada starts on June 21 with National Aboriginal Day, followed by Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24, Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27, and Canada Day on July 1.

I encourage Canadians to take advantage of this period to discover more about our Aboriginal people, learn about our French-Canadian traditions, experience the different communities from all over the world who call Canada home, and of course, to celebrate our national holiday.

For the first time, this year will also mark the launch of Canada History Week, which will run every year from July 1 to 7. Canada History Week is an opportunity to reflect on our great country, learn about our history, explore a museum, visit one of our national historic sites, or join in a local event that celebrates the history of your community.

Our history is full of exciting people, places, and events. For example, in 2013 we are commemorating the 100^th anniversary of the first major Canadian scientific expedition to the Arctic. The Canadian Arctic Expedition's groundbreaking work contributed to Canada's scientific, social, and cultural knowledge of the Arctic, deepening our understanding of each other and unifying our country.

With only four years to go before we mark the 150^th anniversary of Canada in 2017, Celebrate Canada is a wonderful way to reflect on our history and achievements and think about how to celebrate our heritage, values, and bright future in 2017.

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I invite Canadians to join me in celebrating our rich cultural history and taking pride in 146 years of Canada.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage