A Long Time Ago in the Future - Sharing Canadian Stories 2005
Inuit storytellers from Canada's North traditionally began their tales with the words, "a long time ago in the future," implying that what has happened in the past can help us to understand the world to come.
"Science and technology are themselves neither good nor evil. They are the product of human curiosity–the mind's relentless urge to explore, to know, to change. And that is a quality we must always nourish."
David Suzuki, Canadian scientist and broadcaster
The world over, people look to their histories for clues to their future. By listening to the voices of our nation's many peoples, by putting in place policies, programs and legislation that encourage artistic and cultural expression, and by working with all levels of government and the private sector, the Canadian Heritage portfolio ensures that Canadians have more opportunities to celebrate their rich histories, current achievements and promising futures.
"If we do not tell ourselves funny or satirical or tragic or ironic stories about ourselves, if the teller of tales in the corner does not sing our songs, speak our sorrows, narrate our wars, then we will not exist as a nation."
Mary Jane Miller, Canadian academic
In a world where communication is vital and information is the coin of the realm, our cultural touchstones are more important than ever. We must constantly remind ourselves where we come from and what we want to become. We can best do that by communicating our stories, by creating lasting monuments to who we are, and by reaching out to each other so that the mosaic we form presents a clear and cohesive image to the wider world. It is by being rooted in a sense of place, history, and cultural identity that we will thrive and prosper as a nation. And it is our artists and athletes, archivists and museologists, conservationists, creators, innovators and broadcasters who will lead the way.
