By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

promoting diversity and inclusion

Red Deer Native Friendship Society gets federal funding for pow wow

Sep 8, 2019 | 1:36 PM

The Red Deer Native Friendship Society will benefit from a portion of nearly $2.3 million announced by the federal government this week for programs in Alberta that encourage diversity and inclusion.

In all, 26 organizations will receive dollars, as announced by Minister of Natural Resources Amarjeet Sohi on behalf of Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism.

The impact had on Red Deer is almost $59,000 for the friendship society to host its annual National Aboriginal Day Conference and Waskasoo Teepee Traditional Pow Wow.

“By breaking down barriers, we can build stronger and more inclusive communities. I have seen first-hand the dedication and resilience shown by these organizations, who are working to make our province an even better place to live and raise a family,” says Sohi. “This funding from our government will allow them to continue their important work on behalf of all Albertans.”

According to a release, funding is being provided through the Community Support for Black Canadian Youth Initiative, as well as the Events, Projects and Community Capacity Building components of the Community Support, Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Initiatives Program.

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“In June 2019, the Government of Canada unveiled Building a Foundation for Change: Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2019-2022 to help advance the vision of fostering and promoting a more inclusive and equitable country for all Canadians,” the release details. “Budget 2019 announced an investment of $45 million to support this strategy.”

Other events and projects receiving funding include the Franco Festival in Brooks and Calgary, the 21st annual Fairy Tales Queer Film Festival in Calgary, and Empowering Black Girls, an initiative by Edmonton’s Action for Healthy Communities Society.