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Statement by Minister Miller on National Acadian Day


OTTAWA, August 15, 2026

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

“On National Acadian Day, let’s celebrate one of North America’s oldest Francophone communities, which, for more than four centuries, has promoted our culture and contributed to the vitality of the French language across the country.

Today, there are hundreds of thousands of people of Acadian descent across the country who enrich Canada with their culture. Despite the challenges the Acadian community continues to face, it has always chosen to move forward, to create, and to make its voice heard with resilience and pride. This community reminds us that our diversity is a treasure that must be actively protected and nurtured.

Thanks to a joint investment of $750,000 in the Place du Drapeau acadien, announced this year, as well as $5 million in funding over five years starting in 2026–2027 for Canadian Heritage’s Celebrations and Commemorations Program, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving Acadian heritage and supporting National Acadian Day celebrations.

From the aboiteaux to the Tintamarre, and including the songs of Lisa LeBlanc and 1755, Acadia showcases a rich, vibrant cultural heritage deeply rooted in its history—a heritage that continues to keep the hearts of its communities beating and to enrich Canadian identity. On this National Acadian Day, let’s celebrate this living heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation and continues to shape Canada’s present and future.”

Acadia is not just a chapter in our history; it is a very real force that shapes Canada today. Despite the hardships, attempts at assimilation and challenges it continues to face, the Acadian community has always chosen to move forward, to create and to make its voice heard. This resilience is a source of collective pride and reminds us that our diversity is a treasure that must be protected and nurtured.

From music to literature, from theatre to film, from entrepreneurship to community involvement, Acadians—who live in every province and territory—contribute every day to the country’s cultural, economic and social vitality. Their creativity, their boldness and their deep attachment to the French language enrich Canada as a whole and ensure the vitality of our Francophonie.

On this August 15, I wish all Acadians a wonderful National Acadian Day. Let’s continue to keep alive, celebrate and promote this culture that is the beating heart of Canada’s Francophone community. Today, may the tintamarres ring out from one end of the country to the other, reminding everyone that Acadia is very much alive, proud of its history and looking firmly toward the future.”



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Secretary of State van Koeverden celebrates unforgettable Special Olympics Canada 2026 Summer Games


OTTAWA, August 15, 2026

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

“As the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games Medicine Hat 2026 come to a close, we celebrate determination, sportsmanship and power of sport to bring Canadians together. Over the last five days, athletes from across the nation have demonstrated true excellence and strength.

To every athlete: you have made Canada proud. Your hard work and dedication shined brightly, and your commitment to give your very best, support one another and never stop believing in what is possible has inspired us all.

Thank you to the organizers and volunteers. The Special Olympics Canada Summer Games embodied the very best of sport as it welcomed athletes, coaches, families and fans from across the country to advance inclusion, community and participation. Your dedication has helped make this an unforgettable and accessible experience for every participant.

As the Games conclude, the spirit of Special Olympics continues. The friendships forged, the memories created and the confidence gained will last long after the closing ceremony. Together, we will continue building a Canada where everyone has the opportunity to participate and thrive through sport.”



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Secretary of State van Koeverden announces support for a series of international sport events in Canada


GATINEAU, August 12, 2026

Sport is a central part of our national identity, a key driver of economic growth, a force for nation building, and an endless source of pride and inspiration. It has a unique ability to bring Canadians together through shared moments of pride and excellence.

Today, the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport), announced funding to support a series of international sport events taking place this summer across Canada:

  • $150,000 to Volleyball Canada for the Volleyball Nations League (men), which took place in Ottawa, Ontario, from June 10 to 14;
  • $50,000 to Badminton Canada for the Yonex Canada Open 2026, which took place in Markham, Ontario, from June 30 to July 5;
  • $50,000 to Softball Canada for the Canada Cup International Softball Championship, which took place in Surrey, British Columbia, from July 6 to 12;
  • $50,000 to Triathlon Canada for the 2026 Americas Triathlon Cup Magog, which took place in Magog, Quebec, from July 11 to 12;
  • $50,000 to Triathlon Canada for the 2026 World Triathlon Cup Edmonton, which took place in Edmonton, Alberta, July 18 and 19;
  • $100,000 to Squash Canada for the 2026 World Squash Junior Championships, which took place in in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, from July 20 to 31;
  • $50,000 to Sail Canada for the CORK International and Olympic Classes Regatta, taking place in Kingston, Ontario, from August 7 to September 29;
  • $250,000 to Rowing Canada, for the 2026 FISU World University Championships Rowing, taking place in London, Ontario, from August 13 to 15;
  • $75,000 to Swimming Canada for the 2026 Junior Pan Pacific Championships, taking place in Vancouver, British Columbia, from August 17 to 20;
  • $50,000 to Volleyball Canada for the Montreal Beach Pro Tour, taking place in Montréal, Quebec, from August 19 to 23;
  • $50,000 to Basketball Canada for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 – Americas Qualifiers (Window 4), taking place in Québec City, Quebec, from August 24 to August 31;
  • $40,000 to Tennis Canada for the Canadian junior open Championships, taking place in Repentigny, Quebec, from August 29 to September 4;
  • $120,000 to Cycling Canada for the finale of the Crankworx World Tour 2026, taking place in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Quebec, from September 3 to 7.

These investments, and more to come, help national sport organizations deliver world-class competitions and provide Canadian athletes with valuable opportunities to compete against top international talent on home soil, in front of their fans. Beyond supporting high-performance sport, these events contribute to local economies, attract visitors, unite communities and highlight Canada as a premier destination.

These investments are part of a broader national effort to strengthen Canada’s sport system and bring Canadians together through shared experiences. They complement an investment for international sport events across the country announced earlier this summer, a $13-million investment by the Government of Canada to support hosting of the 2026 UCI Road World Championships in Montréal this September, and Canada’s co-hosting of the largest sporting event in the world with this summer’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches in Toronto and Vancouver.

By hosting world-class events in communities across the country, Canada continues to demonstrate its leadership in sport and its commitment to creating opportunities that unite people, celebrate diversity and inspire the next generation.



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Secretary of State van Koeverden marks opening of the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in Medicine Hat


OTTAWA, August 11, 2026

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

“Over the next five days, the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in Medicine Hat, Alberta, will bring together more than 1,700 participants from across Canada to compete in 10 sports, celebrating excellence, determination and the power sport has to bring Canadians together.

Thank you to the exceptional athletes who have worked tirelessly to get here! Your dedication and grit have brought you to the national stage, and as you compete, remember that millions of Canadians are cheering you on with pride and admiration.

Special Olympics Canada, together with coaches, volunteers, families and supporters, has brought these Games to Medicine Hat, where athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities will have the chance to participate, compete and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Special Olympics underscore the values of sport, including strength and courage, while emphasizing the importance of participation.

We are proud to support initiatives that make sport more accessible and inclusive for everyone. Together, we will continue to remove barriers to participation and ensure that more Canadians experience the life-changing joy of sport.

As the Games begin, we celebrate every athlete competing in Medicine Hat. On behalf of all Canadians from coast to coast to coast, good luck and we’ll be right there with you every step of the way!



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Government of Canada supports two popular fall events at the New Brunswick Botanical Garden


EDMUNDSTON, New Brunswick, August 10, 2026

We are thrilled to support the cultural vitality of Edmundston and the surrounding region through two much-anticipated events at the New Brunswick Botanical Garden: the Grande Grouille d’automne in October and the 7th edition of Jardin emballé (Wrapped Garden) in November.

Today, Guillaume Deschênes-Thériault, Member of Parliament (Madawaska–Restigouche), accompanied by Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Jobs and Families and Member of Parliament (Vimy), announced funding of more than $31,000 for the New Brunswick Botanical Garden Society. They made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages. This funding is being provided through the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program, which supports local festivals, events and projects.

From October 1 to 4 2026, the Grande Grouille d’automne will once again transform the New Brunswick Botanical Garden into a colourful and enchanting fall destination, bringing together people of all ages. It features illuminated and themed decorations, musical performances, entertainment and activities for visitors of all ages. The event has become a much-anticipated annual tradition in the region, with the participation of numerous community partners and volunteers.

The 7th edition of Jardin emballé returns from November 6 to 8, 2026, and will kick off the holiday season as the Garden transforms into a sparkling and illuminated setting. The event brings together local artisans and creators through a large public market, while musicians and singers contribute to the festive atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy food and beverages, making Jardin emballé an opportunity to discover and celebrate the creativity and talent found throughout the region.

Together, these two events help extend the Garden’s cultural programming beyond its regular summer season and provide opportunities for artists, artisans, performers, volunteers and community organizations to participate and connect with the public.



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Government of Canada invests in J.M. Drama Alumni in Kitchener


KITCHENER, Ontario, August 10, 2026

Across Canada, local arts and cultural organizations are at the heart of their communities, bringing people together to educate, entertain and inspire. Strengthening these organizations is essential to building a strong Canada, protecting our culture, and ensuring that all Canadians have opportunities to experience arts and culture in their own communities.

Today, Tim Louis, Member of Parliament (Kitchener–Conestoga). announced $156,000 in federal funding for the J.M. Drama Alumni organization, on behalf of the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages. J.M. Drama Alumni is a non-profit professional arts organization in Kitchener that presents arts series.

The Canada Arts Presentation Fund investment will support a variety of diverse performances and outreach activities over the next three years, such as a deaf musician’s workshop and a jazz series spring weekend workshop at The Registry Theatre. Operated by J.M. Drama Alumni, this venue is an inclusive, multidisciplinary space that serves as a gathering place for artists, audiences and the broader community.

This funding will give residents and visitors more opportunities to experience a diverse range of professional arts performances including music, theatre, dance, spoken word and multidisciplinary presentations. Outreach activities will further strengthen the community and encourage participation in the arts across the region.



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