Province Celebrates Gaelic Awareness Month
Nova Scotians will celebrate the contributions of Gaels, from their language and culture, to their strong, diverse communities.
Gaelic Affairs Minister Maurice Smith was joined by members of the Gaelic community at Province House today, May 1, to launch Gaelic Awareness Month by raising the flag of the Nova Scotia Gaels.
"Our diverse culture and heritage makes Nova Scotia a better place for families, and I encourage all Nova Scotians to celebrate the contributions that Gaels make to our identity," said Mr. Smith. "Gaelic Awareness Month recognizes the work and effort that the Gaelic community has committed to advancing their language and culture in the province."
A focal point of this year's Gaelic Awareness Month is the Gaels in Nova Scotia exhibit at the Museum of Natural History, which is showing until Wednesday, May 29. The exhibit is the first of its kind in the province, and is designed to encourage Nova Scotians to learn more about their diverse province by engaging in the language and cultural expression of the Gaels.
"Gaelic makes tangible social, educational and economic contributions to our province and strong support from community and all levels of government is required to ensure its sustainability," said Tim Aggett, Gaelic Council of Nova Scotia president.
"The raising of the Flag of the Gaels at Province House today communicates that both community and government support Gaelic and see its contributions as integral parts of Nova Scotia's well-being and diversity."
Other activities include events at libraries throughout HRM, Gaelic language and cultural workshops, immersion days and ongoing community-based language learning across the province.
The Gaelic Council of Nova Scotia is hosting a provincial gathering on Saturday, May 11, at the Rankin School of the Narrows in Iona, Victoria Co. Rev. Ivan Gregan will officiate a Gaelic ecumenical service on Sunday, May 19, at Little Narrows Church.
For information about Gaelic Awareness Month events, go to www.gaelic.ca , call 1-888-842-3542, or email GAELICINFO@gov.ns.ca .