Author: news22

TORONTO, August 5, 2026

Across the country, festivals bring Canadians together to celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions that make our communities vibrant and inclusive. They also attract millions of visitors from around the world, enriching local economies and helping to make Canada stronger.

Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced funding of up to $100,000 through the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program to GreekTown on the Danforth Business Improvement Area for the Taste of the Danforth festival, Canada’s largest street festival.

This investment will support the return of the Taste of the Danforth following a two-year hiatus, continuing a tradition that began in 1994 as a celebration of Greek food and culture and has since become a symbol of Canada’s multiculturalism.

TORONTO, August 4, 2026

Artists and creators are at the heart of our creative economy, enriching local communities and strengthening social connections. By contributing to Toronto’s diverse and vibrant arts, culture and heritage sector, they generate significant economic benefits across the region.

Today, Karim Bardeesy, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry and Member of Parliament (Taiaiako’n–Parkdale–High Park), announced funding of $61,000 from the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program for the Festival Management Committee that oversees the Toronto Caribbean Carnival. He made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages.

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival, now in its 59th year, is a festival that celebrates and preserves the rich traditions of Caribbean culture while fostering inclusivity, unity and representation.

The investment from the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program supports the participation of 9,630 local artists, artisans and heritage performers and provides them with opportunities to share their talents, traditions and cultural stories with audiences across Toronto and beyond. Live music, dance, costumes, storytelling and cultural demonstrations showcase the artistry and cultural traditions of Caribbean-Canadian communities. These include performances and activities by steelpan musicians, calypsonians, masquerade designers, dancers and educators.

GATINEAU, August 2, 2026

The Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport), issued the following statement:

“As the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games end, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all members of Team Canada on their outstanding achievements.

Throughout these Games, Canadian athletes have demonstrated exceptional talent, determination and resilience, competing with pride in both sport and para sport events and inspiring Canadians from coast to coast to coast.

These accomplishments would not have been possible without the dedication of the coaches, mission staff, officials, medical teams, volunteers, families and supporters who stood behind our athletes every step of the way. Their commitment and encouragement played an essential role in our team’s success.

Thank you, Team Canada, for the unforgettable memories, the inspiring performances and the pride you have brought to our nation. You have demonstrated the very best of Canadian sport and have left a legacy that will inspire future generations of athletes.

Congratulations on a remarkable Commonwealth Games. Canadians across the country celebrate your success and proudly welcome you home.”

Associated Links

OTTAWA, August 1, 2026

The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, made the following statement:

“Today, we observe Emancipation Day to remind ourselves that slavery existed in the territory that is now Canada until its official abolition on August 1, 1834, with the Slavery Abolition Act.

This law led to the emancipation of more than 800,000 people of African descent who had been enslaved throughout most of the British Empire, including Canada, the Caribbean, Africa and South America. However, the legacy of slavery continues to be felt today.

Our government is therefore committed to working closely with Black communities to advance equity, fight racism against Black people, and eliminate the systemic barriers that hinder social and economic inclusion.

It should also be noted that the national recognition of Emancipation Day is the result of decades of advocacy by Black communities, particularly thanks to the leadership of Rosemary Sadlier, former president of the Ontario Black History Society, as well as the commitment of Member of Parliament Majid Jowhari and Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard, who introduced the motion to officially recognize this day at the national level.

On this Emancipation Day, I invite Canadians to deepen their understanding of the history of slavery in Canada and the long-term effects of anti-Black racism. Let us also stand in solidarity with the millions of people around the world who are still victims of forms of slavery and exploitation. Together, let us continue our efforts to build a united and strong Canada, where Black communities can thrive, and where no compromises are made when it comes to respecting human rights.”