June 29, 2011 - The GNWT is accepting nominations for its inaugural Minister’s Cultural Circle to recognize those who contribute to preserving and promoting the arts, cultures and heritage in the Northwest Territories.
The Circle, sponsored by the Minister of Education culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty, recognizes contributors at the local, regional, or territorial level. The Circle aims to strengthen awareness of our unique northern identity by celebrating successful arts and cultural activities. The Circle recognizes all cultures present in the Northwest Territories.
“The NWT is full of dedicated individuals and organizations who pride themselves on promoting and preserving the arts, culture and heritage,” says the Minister. “We live in a truly culturally rich land and the people who keep our diversity alive deserve recognition.”
There are four categories of recognition:
- Elder: an Elder, 50 years of age and older, respected for their contributions of practicing, promoting, guiding, teaching, leadership, vision, or hands-on participation in the areas of art, culture, heritage and language;
- Group: any organization, corporation, institution, committee or social club that plays a lead role in developing and supporting activities that celebrate, promote or preserve the arts, culture and heritage.
- Youth: individuals, 25 years of age and under, who demonstrate a strong commitment to engaging in the arts, cultural learning and cultural practices; and
- Individual: individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to preserving and promoting culture through participation in various arts, culture and heritage related activities
Nomination forms are available at www.ece.gov.nt.ca under the ‘What’s New at ECE’ tab, on the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre’s website (www.pwnhc.ca), at your local band office or at your Regional ECE Service Centre location. Deadline for nominations is Tuesday, August 2, 2011.
One successful candidate per category will be welcomed into the Minister’s Cultural Circle this fall. Consideration is given to any project, organization, or person residing in the Northwest Territories that demonstrates a high level of commitment and makes an outstanding contribution to the arts, culture and heritage.
For more information, please contact:
Amy Doerksen
Manager, Public Affairs
Education, Culture and Employment
Phone: (867) 920-6222
Email: amy_doerksen@gov.nt.ca