QSA's Week in Arts & Culture (#8, 2025)
Canada funds Mi'kmaw language revitalization; Cheryl Hickman appointed Canada Council chair; Compagnie Théâtre Créole receives funding; RESO gains export support; ECMA festival boosts Atlantic music industry.
Start Date: 2025-02-22
End Date: 2025-02-28
Top Headlines
Main Stories
Government of Canada Invests in Mi'kmaw Language Revitalization
The Canadian government announced a $7.1 million investment over five years to support the revitalization of the Mi'kmaw language in Nova Scotia. This funding is part of a new Indigenous language funding model that provides First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities with more control over funding decisions. The funds will be allocated directly to Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey, the designated organization for Mi'kmaq communities in Nova Scotia, allowing them to implement a tailored language strategy.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Cheryl Hickman Appointed Chairperson of Canada Council for the Arts
Cheryl Hickman has been appointed as the next chairperson of the Canada Council for the Arts for a five-year term, succeeding Jesse Wente. Hickman, founder and director of Opera on the Avalon, is known for her innovative programming and commitment to equity in the arts. Her leadership has been recognized with numerous accolades, and she has served on the board of directors of Opera.ca. Her appointment is expected to influence the Council's direction significantly.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Funding Boost for Compagnie Théâtre Créole
The Government of Canada has announced $120,500 in funding for Montréal’s Compagnie Théâtre Créole. This funding will support three projects: Festithéâtrecréole, Absolument Femmes, and the Festival Théâtre Communauté des Noirs. These initiatives aim to celebrate and promote the rich heritage of Black Canadians, providing platforms for artists to engage diverse audiences during Black History Month.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Racial Equity Screen Office Receives Federal Support
The Racial Equity Screen Office (RESO) is set to receive $42,000 for its IP Across Continents Accelerator project, designed to help racialized Canadian producers find buyers for their intellectual property in the audiovisual industry. Additionally, RESO will get $100,000 to enhance its organizational capacity and reduce systemic barriers in Canada's screen industry. This investment aims to strengthen RESO's role in supporting diversity and sustainability in the sector.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Investment in Atlantic Music Industry Announced
The East Coast Music Association will receive a $300,000 investment from the Canadian government to support its annual festival and conference. This funding will facilitate growth and connection within the Atlantic Canada music industry, showcasing local talent and boosting the region's cultural economy. The event is anticipated to generate significant economic benefits for the host province, Newfoundland and Labrador.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca