News Release – Government of Canada Supports Children’s Magazine Promoting Citizenship

Ottawa, October 18, 2010 — The Government of Canada today announced funding for a special edition of Kayak: Canada’s History Magazine for Kids focusing on Canadian citizenship.

Inter-Action, Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s Multiculturalism Grants and Contributions Program, is investing $95,450 in the Canada’s National History Society (CNHS) project entitled “Discover Canada: A Kid’s Guide to What Every Canadian Citizen Should Know.”

Bridging the gap between education and entertainment, Kayak employs fascinating features and stories with leading designers and illustrators to put Canada's history in the context of today's world.

Speaking on behalf of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney, Pierre Poilievre, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and to the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, marked the launch of the double-issue at Rockcliffe Park Public School in Ottawa.

“This special issue of Kayak is a good way for kids to learn about Canada and feel proud of our history and our accomplishments,” said Parliamentary Secretary Poilievre. “Canada’s future depends on all of us growing together through our shared values, history and institutions.”

“It’s important for us that young children’s first encounter with Canadian history and heritage is both fun and engaging. Kids – young and old – will have fun exploring Canada’s symbols, systems of government, and responsibilities of citizenship through stories, games, and online activities in a way that is sure to help encourage even more exploration of our country and its past,” said Deborah Morrison, president and CEO of Canada’s History Society, the publisher of Kayak.   

This year, CIC is inviting Canadians to celebrate Citizenship Week by sharing their views on citizenship on Twitter and Facebook. Each day of the week, CIC will highlight a different citizenship right or responsibility to generate discussion and interest.

For more information about Citizenship Week, visit: http://www.cic.gc.ca

Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/CitImmCanada.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Alykhan Velshi
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada

Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca