April 29, 2022 Halifax, Nova Scotia Parks Canada Agency
Parks Canada is responsible for protecting nationally significant examples of natural and cultural heritage and sharing the stories of these treasured places, including the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. As cornerstones of Canada's tourism industry, Parks Canada administered places are committed to providing visitors with high-quality and meaningful visitor experiences and supporting tourism in communities across the country.
Today, Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and Member of Parliament for Halifax, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced the completion and spring opening of a new $5 million signature interpretive exhibit at Halifax Citadel National Historic Site; one of the most-visited national historic sites in the country and a Halifax tourism icon. Funded through the Federal Infrastructure Investment Program, this experiential offering will be open to visitors starting on May 7, 2022.
Fortress Halifax: A City Shaped by Conflict chronicles the history of Kjipuktuk, through its establishment as "Halifax" in 1749 to the mosaic of a city that it is today. The exhibit recounts stories of the people here - the Mi'kmaq, and settlers of British, French, Acadian, Black Loyalist, and other immigrant cultures. This 6500sqft exhibit combines both traditional and virtual elements, offering a social and military history of Halifax and its impact on the region and the globe as told through the lens of the four forts that stood atop Citadel Hill. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the accessible and experiential nature of this multi-room exhibit.
Parks Canada worked closely with Mi'kmaq, and other local groups to ensure the materials developed for the exhibit reflect the diverse histories and experiences of the people of Kjipuktuk (Halifax) and Nova Scotia. Across the country, Parks Canada is honoured to work in collaboration with Indigenous peoples to develop interpretive materials and activities at national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas with the goal of fostering a better understanding of Indigenous peoples' perspectives, cultures and traditions.
