Canadian Parents for French Recognizes the Government of Canada Financial Investments in new French Cultural Support Program, ImmersART
OTTAWA, ON – August, 29, 2024 – Canadian Parents for French applauds the Government of Canada’s initiative in continued funding of the successful arts and cultural programs PassepART, La ruchée and Vice-Versa in francophone schools and wishes to highlight the announcement of an additional new program, ImmersART. This program expands the reach of French cultural grants to intermediate and secondary schools offering French Immersion programs, offered by English language school districts.
CPF acknowledges the profound impact that culture, arts, and community activities have on shaping the identity of young Francophones. These programs are also pivotal in bridging cultural divides, allowing French second language learners to engage with French culture, experience its richness, and develop a sense of belonging within a diverse Canadian Francophonie. ImmersART promises to bring an increased array of dynamic opportunities to schools, enabling FSL students to connect with contemporary French artists, performers, and authors. CPF has committed its support in a promotional role within its networks to inform teachers and encourage student participation in the program ensuring its success.
Marie-Christine Morin, Executive Director of the Fédération culturelle canadienne-française (FCCF), the organization spearheading ImmersART, emphasizes, “The new ImmersART program will help strengthen the ties between immersion schools and the Francophone arts and culture scene, while reinforcing students’ sense of belonging to a plural and inclusive Canadian Francophonie.”
The ImmersART Program (2024–2028) has been allocated $4,289,205 to enhance the success of PassepART’s cultural microfinancing for French-immersion schools across Canada. This funding will foster collaboration among schools, community groups, and artists to expand cultural activities and fortify Francophone identity in over 600 institutions by 2028. These investments align with the federal government’s Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration.
CPF is a nationwide, research-informed, volunteer organization that promotes and creates opportunities to learn and use French for all those who call Canada home.
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Media Contact:
Ahdithya Visweswaran
Director, Advocacy & Public Policy
613-235-1481, ext. 222
avisweswaran@cpf.ca