Saint John Showcases Asian Culture

SAINT JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK--(Marketwired - Oct. 16, 2014) - Department of Canadian Heritage

Rodney Weston, Member of Parliament (Saint John), announced funding of $16,500 ($3,200 in 2014-2015 and $13,300 in 2015-2016) for the Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick - Saint John Chapter under the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program. He made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

From May 3 to 30, 2015, the 8th edition of Asian Heritage Month Celebrations will take place in Saint John. The activities will feature traditional dance, musical and vocal performances from a variety of Asian-Canadian groups, including Vietnamese, Chinese and Filipino, a series of workshops presented by various local cultural groups, as well as cultural displays of traditional Asian art, costumes and heritage. The Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick - Saint John Chapter promotes and celebrates the cultural heritage, art and history of Asian Canadians in the community.

Quick Facts

• Since 2003, the Asian Society of New Brunswick (AHSNB) has organized and supported activities aimed at promoting Asian Canadian history, culture and art.
• AHSNB spans the province, with sister chapters and partnering organizations in Saint John, Moncton, Miramichi and Bathurst. As one of 16 Asian Canadian heritage organizations across the country, the AHSNB is part of a growing network of organizations that aim to create a welcoming and celebratory environment for Asian Canadians, both new and established.
• The Asian Heritage Month Celebrations in Saint John will promote the work of 27 local artists, 13 local artisans and 140 presenters of local heritage. The organization is counting on the participation of 300 volunteers who will dedicate 4,000 hours to realize the 28-day festival.

Quotes

"Our Government is proud to support organizations that engage communities through arts and culture activities that help stimulate our local economy and vitality. Events like the Asian Heritage Month Celebrations showcase our rich cultural diversity."

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

"Our Government is pleased to partner with organizations who are working hard to ensure our cultural heritage continues to flourish. Each year, the Asian Heritage Month Celebrations offer a unique cultural experience through a variety of activities presented by numerous local artists, with the support of a great number of volunteers."

• Rodney Weston, Member of Parliament (Saint John)

"The Asian Heritage Month Celebrations in Saint John were recently awarded the Progression Award by the Saint John Community Arts Board at the 2014 Originals. Our celebration is made possible with funding from Canadian Heritage. It allows us to showcase our rich Asian heritage and the achievements of Asian Canadians. Collectively, we have brought our communities closer and opened the doors to greater understanding about the complex Canadian identity."

• Dr. Li-Hong Xu, Director, Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick - Saint John Chapter

Associated Links

Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage

Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick

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