The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Minister for the Arctic Council and Member of Parliament (Nunavut), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding for two projects that will help preserve the Aboriginal heritage of the Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation and the Tlicho people.

“Canada’s North has a rich cultural heritage, and our Government is proud to create opportunities for Canadians to learn about it,” said Minister Aglukkaq. “Today’s investment will help ensure that the stories and traditions of the Tlicho people and the Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation are accessible and can be shared for many years to come.”

The Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation Knowledge Archive Project will create an information system that will store traditional knowledge studies undertaken by the community. Members will gain access to a variety of records about their culture, history and traditional practices. The Tlicho History Web Portal project will produce an interactive website that will facilitate preserving and sharing information about the Tlicho peoples of Behchoko, Gameti, Wekweeti, and Whati.

“Beginning on Canada Day 2013, Canadians from coast to coast to coast will mark the first-ever Canada History Week. This is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about Tlicho culture and how the Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation has shaped our great nation,” said Minister Moore. “During Canada History Week, I encourage all Canadians to visit a museum, tour one of our great national historic sites, or speak to a veteran and learn what makes Canada the united, strong, and free country we are today.”

“The Tlicho Government’s creation of the Tlicho History Web Portal is an innovative tool to share, promote and showcase the Tlicho culture, language and way of life to our people and the rest of Canada,” said Giselle Marion, Website Coordinator for the Tlicho Government.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $100,000 to the Lutsel K'e Dene First Nation and $32,175 to the Tlicho Government through the Museums Assistance Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides funding to Canadian museums and related institutions for projects that foster excellence in museum activities and that facilitate access to the treasures of our collective heritage.

http://www.pch.gc.ca/eng/1372508420205/1372508438191