News Release – October 11, 2011
NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE– The Harper Government today launched the commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.
This War helped establish our path toward becoming an independent and free country, united under the Crown with a respect for linguistic and ethnic diversity.
“The heroic efforts of those who fought for our country in the War of 1812 tell the story of the Canada we know today: an independent and free country with a constitutional monarchy and its own distinct parliamentary system,” said James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
“The 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 is an opportunity for all of us to take pride in our history, and we look forward to taking part in the events and activities that will mark this important anniversary for Canada.”
Over the next four years, the Government will invest to increase Canadians’ awareness of this defining moment in our history.
This will include support for: a pan-Canadian educational campaign focused on the importance of the War of 1812 to Canada’s history; support for up to 100 historical re-enactments, commemorations, and local events; a permanent 1812 memorial located in the National Capital Region; interactive tours, six exhibits, and improvements to three national historic sites across the country; investments in infrastructure at key 1812 battle sites, such as Fort Mississauga and Fort York, Ontario; celebrating and honouring the links that many of our current militia regiments in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada have to the War of 1812.
October 2012, will also be designated as a month of commemoration of the heroes and key battles of the War of 1812.
“Had the War of 1812 ended differently, the Canada we know today would not exist. The war laid the foundation for Confederation and the cornerstones of our political institutions,” said Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada.
Details on planned activities will be made available on the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 website at www.1812.gc.ca.
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