Latest news with #Moncton-based
Cision Canada
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
The Government of Canada supports multicultural projects in the Atlantic Region to build a strong and inclusive Canada Français
Parliamentary Secretary visits the Satellite Théâtre in Moncton MONCTON, NB, Aug. 14, 2025 /CNW/ - Canadian identity and culture drive innovation, economic growth and national pride. By supporting community initiatives that celebrate our cultural diversity, bring people together, and create spaces to share our diverse stories, heritage and traditions, we strengthen the bonds that unite us and build a Canada where everyone belongs. Today, David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and to the Secretary of State (Nature) and Member of Parliament (Fredericton–Oromocto), announced over $1,200,000 in funding for projects under the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program. Through this funding, communities in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador will benefit from projects that advance anti-racism, diversity and inclusion; intercultural and interfaith understanding; and research to build awareness of the disparities and challenges faced by equity-deserving populations. Projects include interactive cultural events like festivals and celebrations, as well as projects to reduce barriers to employment in the arts and culture sectors. As part of the funding commitments, an investment of $154,325 is allocated to support Satellite Théâtre, a Moncton-based organization that uses theatre to explore identity, migration and cultural dialogue. The funding will help provide tools, opportunities and spaces to racialized artists and cultural workers and empower them to become leaders within their communities. With investments in our communities and in the promotion of multicultural and anti-racism projects, these initiatives are key to strengthening Canada's cultural and social fabric. Quotes "A strong and inclusive Canada is one where everyone sees themselves reflected in our stories, our stages and our cultural spaces. Culture is not only an expression of who we are; it's a core pillar of our sovereignty and economic strength. By supporting anti-racism initiatives and promoting cultural diversity, we help build communities that are vibrant, equitable and connected." —The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages "These investments will have a meaningful impact across Atlantic Canada. They support the artists and organizations who bring our communities together, celebrate our diversity and challenge us to grow." —David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and to the Secretary of State (Nature) and Member of Parliament (Fredericton–Oromocto) Quick Facts The projects announced today represent a total investment of $1,225,207 in Atlantic Canada. Satellite Théâtre Inc. is a non-profit organization based in Moncton whose mandate is to promote a modern and open Francophone community in Canada through theatrical productions and outreach activities. This creative and touring theatre company produces shows that highlight the voices of marginalized people, whether they are Acadian, English-speaking, Indigenous or newcomers. Satellite Théâtre is receiving $154,325 from the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program for a project that supports the removal of barriers faced by racialized groups in the artistic and cultural sectors. The project will implement intercultural awareness initiatives targeting artistic organizations in New Brunswick, with a particular focus on the theatre community. Data Tables Associated Links Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program Satellite Théâtre SOURCE Canadian Heritage
Hamilton Spectator
25-07-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Irvings donate $3M to new N.B. Museum
The New Brunswick Museum is launching a $36 million capital campaign for its revitalization project, starting with a $3 million donation from J.D. Irving, Ltd. The museum unveiled the campaign, titled 'Making History Now,' on Thursday as part of the $141.5 million project to improve the existing museum building on Douglas Avenue and expand it into 'a renewed, world-class provincial museum.' The campaign will be chaired by J.D. Irving co-CEO Jim Irving, according to a press release from the museum. 'We're really excited today to be launching the capital campaign,' Tracy Clinch, chair of the New Brunswick Museum board, told Brunswick News by phone Tuesday. She said the 'quiet phase' of the campaign began after the official groundbreaking last August, including discussions with donors, development of marketing, and assembling the 'campaign cabinet.' Funding for the project, building on the site of the existing 1934 facility on Douglas Avenue, was announced in March 2024 and includes $58 million from the provincial government and $49.9 million from the federal government. The campaign will cover the gap between government funding and the 'finished product,' Clinch said. She said the 'revised timeline' includes a planned opening in 2028, with construction work expected to wrap by the fourth quarter of 2027 or first quarter of 2028. Last August, Brunswick News reported it was planned to open in 2027. Construction has begun, Clinch said, with the fencing up, the first set of tenders are out and the next set 'ready to go,' Clinch said. She said the project remains on budget. Clinch said the capital campaign has been meeting with 'prospective major donors,' as well as possible partners for the museum project. She said the campaign is 'well over halfway there' already, with additional names to be announced 'in the coming weeks.' 'There are lots of opportunities for donations, for volunteering, for contributing in-kind materials, we have a number of ways that everyone can get involved in the campaign,' she said. The 'capital campaign cabinet' is chaired by Irving, and includes museum COO Brent Suttie, Clinch (who is CEO of Moncton-based Masitek Instruments Inc.), fellow museum board member Wayne Power, John McAvity of the museum foundation, Aldéa Landry, president of Moncton's Landal, Inc., Joel Richardson, vice-president of public relations for Saint John-based Cooke, Inc., Andy Carson, vice-president, government relations for JDI, Sonia Van Roestel, director of marketing for Kent Building Supplies, which is a division of JDI. Irving was not available Tuesday for an interview, according to JDI spokesperson Anne McInerney. In the press release, he is quoted as saying the museum project 'will inspire new generations of New Brunswickers, giving them a chance to learn more about our province's history and its importance to the rest of the country.' JDI has contributed a 'transformative $3 million lead gift,' according to the release. Clinch said she's 'thrilled' to have Irving as the campaign chair. 'The Irving family have been tremendous supporters of the museum over the years in its various locations,' she said. 'His business acumen and his wide-reaching network are assets to the campaign cabinet, but just generally he's been such an unbelievable supporter and such a great person to work with.' The museum had been located in Market Square until the location closed, with a research centre opening on Lancaster Avenue in 2023. A new museum went through 'more than 20 iterations' over the years through various boards, Clinch said, including a $100 million project on the Saint John waterfront which was cancelled by then-premier Blaine Higgs and the Progressive Conservatives after taking office in 2018. When asked what support, if any, the Irvings offered during the transition and search for a new location, Clinch said that selection of the location took place before any discussions around the capital campaign. She said the Irving family has been a 'supporter for having a New Brunswick museum' and cultural hub for the province. The project involves preserving the existing museum facades and adding new wings designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects, with 'state-of-the-art exhibition galleries, discovery centres, research and teaching laboratories, a public auditorium, Indigenous engagement spaces, and a rooftop terrace,' according to the press release. 'We have a very rich cultural history, and the stories that need to be told ... are going to be represented in the museum,' Clinch said. 'We really hope and feel ... that everyone will see themselves in this museum. It's an inclusive space that is intended to be a teaching and learning museum as well as a working museum.' She said the building will be a 'lasting legacy for the entire province' intended to last 100 years. She said that offers an opportunity for families, industry leaders, artists, cultural figures and others. 'There are a number of cultural figures, there is a large population who have a piece of the story that's going to be in the museum,' she said. 'To be able to put your name to that legacy is I think a very important offering ... that the museum has to give to potential donors.' She said she's a 'relative newcomer' to the museum board and that the project owes much to previous boards, past chair Kathryn Hamer, Suttie and 'many many people over the years.' She said it's 'extremely rewarding' to see the satisfaction of those working in the museum with the new facility. 'You can't even imagine it, there have been people literally working 30 years on this,' she said. 'Seeing it come to fruition is a bit of culmination of all their hard work ... it's a really moving time.' More information on the campaign, including how to make a donation, is available at . Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
CBC
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- CBC
8 New Brunswick artists you should hear for Black History Month
Impressive, but lacking recognition. That's the position Black musical artists find themselves in, says Clinton Davis, and why the podcaster started a weekly radio show, BAM Radio —Black Atlantic Music. "The production quality is up there," said Davis. "The talent, the passion, the lyrical content, it's amazing." In celebration of Black History Month, Davis and Information Morning Moncton have collaborated to highlight eight New Brunswick artists making waves in the music industry. "I tried to spread it out as much as I could throughout New Brunswick, so that the listeners throughout the month can really get a scope of the wide variety of music available out here," said Davis. Dee Hernandez Born in Cuba and raised in Dartmouth, Dee Hernandez now calls New Brunswick home. The singer combines the music of her native land with R & B, funk and jazz. Hernandez is known for her high-tempo concerts backed up by a nine-piece band. "I've caught Dee perform no less than 10 times in the past couple of years and that's probably being modest," said Davis. "The province is incredibly lucky to have her." Hero B Hero B, born in the eastern African country of Burundi, now lives in Fredericton. The artist defies categorization by fusing elements of Afrobeats, a music from West Africa, R & B, hip-hop and dancehall into a sound Davis characterizes as "rhythmic" and "danceable." Davis said the artist has a "poppy, superstar-type aura and energy to him," and his live shows are something to behold. "I've seen Hero perform two or three times over the years, and his energy and authenticity on the stage is a pleasure to watch," said Davis. "He might have a crew on stage, dancers and costumes, kids doing some kind of routine or some kind of creative other fun thing to watch." Michael J Foxx No, not that Michael J. Fox. But make no mistake, the Moncton-based rapper is making his own name in the music industry. Foxx, who moved from the Bronx, New York, in 2019, has secured a record deal with Sony, charted on the iTunes Top 200 several times and has had his music featured in two Paramount+ television series. Davis credits Foxx for pushing him out of a creative funk. "He was the first person to get me back in the studio making music again and having fun after my own 10-year hiatus," said Davis. "I will say we've created some really great music that's yet to be released." Jtk Jtk, also known as Josh the Killer, is a rapper with an interesting sound. And Davis admits he's not exactly sure what to make of the artist with the energetic delivery and staccato flow. "I've listened to him on many occasions and simply asked myself, 'is this good?' While also not wanting to turn it off," said Davis. "In the end I keep on deciding, 'wow, this is very good art.'" Shawno Rapper Shawno has a lot going on in his life. Originally from the Bahamas, Shawno is a student at Mount Allison University in Sackville, where he's pursuing a double major in music and psychology. He's also a multi-instrumentalist who plays piano, guitar and drums. "He's one of the first artists to reach out to me that I didn't already know," said Davis. "His progress has been very inspiring." One8tea One8tea is not only a growing force in Canadian hip-hop, he also made history in 2021 when he became the first Black artist to win a Music New Brunswick award. The Halifax-born artist now calls the Moncton area home. His life has had its ups and downs, as he has struggled with homelessness and addiction, said Davis. In addition to his music, One8tea is known for his work in the community. "He supports youth across Canada with workshops focused on faith, bullying, teen suicide and drug awareness." The Kingston Collective Hailing from the Kingston Peninsula, the Kingston Collective is a five-piece band which fuses rock, pop, funk and reggae. Vocalist Joel McPherson, Father Naheim Allah, is the only Black Atlantic musician in this group. Davis said McPherson is also known for his work with the Black Rose Nation, a business in Kingston which offers a blueberry u-pick and Christmas tree farm. "His creative vision and commitment to uplifting Black voices shines through every lyric and stage appearance," said Davis. "Not only that, but his personal support for the Black Atlantic community knows no bounds." Léo Rafael Davis said the only Francophone song in the series is from Léo Rafael, a classically trained vocalist who lives in Campbellton. But his story is an international one. "With formal training from the Conservatoire de Strasbourg and studies at Paris 8 University, Léo developed a versatile repertoire that spans pop, jazz and gospel." Being Black in Canada
CBC
29-01-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Refugee claimants 'political pawns' in N.B.-federal fight, advocates say
Refugee advocates say that people fleeing desperate situations in their home countries are being turned into pawns in an immigration fight between the federal government and New Brunswick. Ottawa slashed New Brunswick's allocation of so-called economic migrants in half earlier this month. But the federal minister is offering to be flexible on those numbers with provinces willing to accommodate more asylum seekers while they apply for refugee status. "Refugee claimants are yet again being used as a political pawn in conversations between different levels of government in our favourite Canadian game of jurisdictional hockey," said Aditya Rao, a founding board member of the Madhu Verma Migrant Justice Centre. Last week's comments by federal Immigration Minister Marc Miller were "not necessarily the most productive way to talk about how we support refugee claimants," said Olivia Huynh, executive director of the Moncton-based New Brunswick Refugee Clinic. "The conversation should really be about how do we provide people with the supports they need wherever they are in Canada, and not about exchanging refugee claimants for [Provincial Nominee Program] spots," she said. While the federal government oversees immigration overall, it allocates some spots to provinces that they can use choose people for their job skills or because they can fill labour vacancies in some sectors. Earlier this month, Miller cut New Brunswick's allocations in half in two such programs, the Provincial Nominee Program and the Atlantic Immigration Program. WATCH | 'A political pawn': Advocates on federal immigration stance: In Ottawa last Friday, Miller said he could increase the numbers for provinces "that are willing to be responsible about taking on their fair share of asylum seekers." The federal government has been looking for ways to help Ontario and Quebec cope with the disproportionate share of asylum seekers in those provinces by asking other provinces to accommodate more of them. Last September, then-premier Blaine Higgs claimed Miller was trying to force New Brunswick to accept 4,600 claimants — beyond the province's ability to handle, he said. Miller said at the time that Ottawa would provide funding and denounced Higgs's comments as "largely fictitious," though a federal document provided by Higgs included that figure. The federal minister said last Friday that "a number of premiers have been irresponsible" and had "weaponized" the asylum seekers request, "whether it's for their own leadership campaigns or the elections that have been had over the last few months." He did not mention Higgs specifically. When Higgs made his comments last year, Susan Holt, then-leader of Liberals, said the PC leader was "trying to create division and fear … while playing politics with the lives of vulnerable people." Now that Holt is in power, her provincial immigration minister, Jean-Claude D'Amours, has appeared cool to a deal with Miller on asylum seekers. "We need to look at our capacity to have more people," he told CBC's Information Morning Moncton last week. "At this time, what we are looking [at], and our need, it's really to have economic immigrants, and making sure that when we have someone in the province, it is to work in a field where we are in need." A spokesperson for D'Amours said in response to Miller's comments last Friday that discussions are "ongoing" with Ottawa. "While we wait to fully understand the federal government's proposal, it would be premature to offer any comment," Paul Bradley said in an emailed statement. The back-and-forth is dismaying for the advocates who try to support refugee claimants. "Some premiers think that they have the power to say they will accept no refugee claimants — which they don't have the power to do — and we have a federal government that thinks this is a chip they can use in larger political game," Rao said. Huynh said it's easy to forget during political fights that the debate is about victims of torture, war, family and gender-based violence seeking a better life in Canada — and who are at risk if their refugee claims are not successful. "It can be possible to lose sight of the fact that we are dealing with individuals and families who have experienced these really traumatic situations." Rao and Huynh both said that any federal-provincial deal to have New Brunswick accept more asylum seekers would be moot, because the claimants are free to relocate to other provinces while their applications are adjudicated. Often they move because they're able to find better support in larger centres, Rao said. Huynh said her clinic in Moncton is able to meet the demand for legal aid services for the refugee claim process at current levels. And it can meet even more demand provided it gets advance notice, accurate information about numbers and other key information, such as which languages the claimants speak, she added. "I think it's unfortunate that the discussion about how we support refugee claimants has been tied to the PNP because they're two completely different streams of immigration," she said. Rao said Canada has obligations under international agreements that all levels of government must respect. "It's a less a question of who's right and more of a question of what's right?" he said. "Refugee claimants have become a new political football, as if they are some sort of burden to be shared rather than a responsibility we have to protect."
