The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Heritage and Minister responsible for Official Languages, made the following statement:
"Today marks the beginning of German Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the history, cultures and contributions of the millions of people of Germanic origin who strengthen our country every day.
Since the first immigrants from Germany, Austria and Switzerland arrived in Canada in the 17th and 18th centuries, more than 3 million people of Germanic ancestry have made Canada their home, enriching our communities and helping shape the country we are today.
From lively community celebrations such as Oktoberfest, to music, craftsmanship and delicious food, we are proud that German cultures and traditions are vibrant and alive across Canada. In communities across the country, Samstagsschulen, or Saturday schools, Goethe Institutes and German studies programs at universities, help pass German languages, traditions and cultures from one generation to the next.
This October, let's discover this vibrant German cultural heritage that is part of Canada's story.
Happy German Heritage Month and Happy Oktoberfest! Prost!"
