A Shared Canadian Heritage - Sharing Canadian Stories 2005

Up Close and Personal

Because as Canadians we often feel we must struggle to be heard over the roar of a history that includes powerful nations such as the United States, Great Britain and France, strong emphasis is placed on preserving our own national symbols. This effort to maintain a unique identity extends to everything from Canadian performing arts companies and television programming to Canada's museums, national historic sites and parks. Strengthening national symbols, our nation-wide sense of history, and our multicultural heritage are important objectives for the Canadian Heritage portfolio. Ensuring the vitality of both official languages is a matter of national priority. The vitality of official language communities, through their creations and diverse forms of artistic expression, contribute to Canada's cultural wealth.

Canada's heritage institutions–including museums, galleries, archives, libraries, zoos and botanical gardens–are an important part of our country's culture. There are roughly 2,500 such institutions in Canada. Together, these institutions welcome more than 58 million visitors per year. (Source: Statistics Canada)

Canada's archives, libraries and museums are the custodians of Canadians' collective memory as well as their natural and cultural heritage. These heritage institutions enable the Canadian public and visitors to learn more about Canada, its history, its achievements, and the rich traditions of its Aboriginal people. Heritage institutions are true windows to the events and the people who have shaped, and who are shaping, Canada. From them we can learn about our social history, take an interest in Canada's involvement in international peacekeeping missions, or learn about unusual land mammals now vanished from our land. We can also discover Canada's successes in the area of science and technology, and appreciate the music, folk dances and other cultural expression that are a reflection of our country's diversity. The Department of Canadian Heritage supports these institutions through various programs to ensure that Canadians now and in the future enjoy increased access to their rich heritage. The Government of Canada is reviewing its museum policy to keep pace with our cultural diversity and to remain at the forefront in terms of protection and access to Canadian cultural heritage.

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