GATINEAU, Quebec, May 22, 2019
The Government of Canada recognizes that Indigenous Peoples have profoundly influenced Canada's identity, culture and history. That's why we're proud to support projects that showcase their significant contribution. Today, Greg Fergus, Member of Parliament (Hull-Aylmer), announced funding of $300,000 for the completion of the Cégep de l'Outaouais project Histoire du Canada - Perspectives des Premiers Peuples (History of Canada - First Peoples' Perspectives). The purpose of the project is to include the perspective of Indigenous Peoples in the Canadian history taught in schools, and to raise public awareness of the important role Indigenous Peoples have played in Canadian history. Mr. Fergus made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism.
To carry out its project, the Cégep de l'Outaouais plans to create educational materials designed by experts in history and education, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous. Over the next three years, the contributors will conduct a comprehensive data collection to inform this new material. A website will be created to archive, catalogue and make the data collected during this exercise, as well as the educational material, available to the general public. Finally, these materials will be distributed to schools and educational organizations, associations and institutions across the country.
This collaborative project will involve at least 11 First Nations in Quebec and Ontario, as well as two First Nations that will represent the Prairies, British Columbia, Nunavut and the maritime provinces.
"No relationship is more important to the Government of Canada than our relationship with Indigenous Peoples. The Histoire du Canada - Perspectives des Premiers Peuples project is the result of a positive spirit of cooperation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. It's an inspiring example that will help Canadians move forward on the path to reconciliation."
-The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism
"The history of the First Peoples is essential to Canada's history. With the project Histoire du Canada - Perspectives des Premiers Peuples, we can better understand where we are going, who we are and where we came from. I am very proud that this project originated in the Outaouais region, particularly because it will promote closer ties between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people across Canada."
-Greg Fergus, Member of Parliament for Hull-Aylmer
"It is critical to make the history of the First Peoples known through their own voices, in order to open ourselves to their perspectives and worldviews, which can only enrich the education system and encourage the necessary change in perception, so that future generations can walk together."
-Diane Le May, Instructor, Department of History and Geography, Cégep de l'Outaouais
Quick facts
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The Cégep de l'Outaouais, the only public Francophone college in the Outaouais region, is an institution of higher education and professional development. Its mission is to provide a recognized, success-oriented learning environment for a large student base from the Outaouais, Quebec and abroad.
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The Cégep de l'Outaouais has received funding from Canadian Heritage since 2015 through the Events, Celebrations and Commemorations program and the Canada History Fund.
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The Canada History Fund aims to increase understanding of Canada's history, stories, people and democracy. The fund supports the production of learning materials, organization of learning activities, and creation or maintenance of networks.
