Diverse Cultures, One Language : The Communaute des Africains Francophones de la Saskatchewan Promotes Dialogue

SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwired - May 29, 2014) - Department of Canadian Heritage

The Government of Canada is providing funding to the Communauté des Africains Francophones de la Saskatchewan (CAFS) for its project entitled "Dialogue des cultures". The goal of this initiative is to bring together French-speaking immigrants and established Saskatchewan Francophones through cultural and sports activities so that they can become better acquainted.

On behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Maurice Vellacott, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Wanuskewin, today announced $25,000 in funding.

The CAFS is active in welcoming, supporting and integrating African Francophones and promoting their culture.

Quick Facts

• The cultural activities being offered to residents of Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert, North Battleford and Moose Jaw include:
  • screening of films on the history of Saskatchewan Francophones and the immigrants' history;
  • an introduction to African dance and percussion and French-Canadian folk dance;
  • reading of texts from both cultures and role-playing.
• The group will also try to establish ties with Francophones in Saint-Denis, Gravelbourg, Bellevue, Estevan and Ponteix by offering them cultural activities similar to those being held in the urban centres.
• Sports activities will include organizing intercultural soccer teams in each of the urban centres and a "Coupe de l'amitié" (friendship cup) mini-tournament.
• The Government of Canada is providing this financial support under the Community Life (http://www.canadianheritage.gc.ca/pgm/lo-ol/pgm/dclo-vc-eng.cfm) component of the Development of Official-Language Communities Program (http://www.canadianheritage.gc.ca/eng/1267730127653/1254372253371).

Quotes

"The activities being offered by the Communauté des Africains Francophones de la Saskatchewan will facilitate closer ties between newcomers and the established Francophone community in Saskatchewan by drawing on a resource they have in common: the French language. We are proud to support the CAFS in its efforts."

- The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

"Initiatives like this one serve to enhance the vitality of the Francophone community in Saskatchewan. The Communauté des Africains Francophones de la Saskatchewan is helping to raise the profile of the French language across the province. And that is why I am pleased to announce this funding today."

- Maurice Vellacott, Member of Parliament (Saskatoon-Wanuskewin)

"Integrating and supporting newcomers in Canadian and Saskatchewan culture has to include the dialogue of cultures-the foundation of a modern society."

- Jean N. Murwanashyaka, President of the Communauté des Africains Francophones de la Saskatchewan

Associated Links

- Development of Official-Language Communities Program

Stay Connected

Follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Flickr.