April 19, 2024
Manitoba Government Investing in Francophone Culture
– – –Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain a Vital Part of Manitoba's Heritage: Premier
As part of Budget 2024, the Manitoba government is increasing the funding to the Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain (CCFM), Premier Wab Kinew and Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Glen Simard, minister responsible for francophone affairs, announced today.
“After more than a decade of funding freezes, our government is committed to supporting Manitoba’s arts and cultural organizations with new and ongoing funding that creates good jobs and a vibrant Manitoba,” said Kinew. “French language is at the heart of Manitoba's future. CCFM is a central hub for showcasing and preserving francophone culture, and this funding will allow the CCFM to expand its French programing for all Manitobans to enjoy.”
Considered to be at the heart of Manitoba’s francophone community, the CCFM supports francophone organizations that provide cultural services and programs. Located in the heart of St. Boniface, the CCFM plays an integral role in connecting, promoting, sponsoring and offering cultural and artistic activities in French for all Manitobans. The centre also provides educational and visual arts programming and features an art gallery, restaurant and concert halls.
CCFM’s annual funding has been frozen since 2011 at $419,000, Simard noted. In Budget 2024, the Manitoba government is increasing CCFM’s operating budget by $387,000 for a total annual investment of $806,000.
“CCFM is home to many francophones. We’ve all attended events and celebrations in this place,” said Simard. “Our government is proud to contribute to the cultural vitality of the francophone community by supporting CCFM.”
“For 50 years, the CCFM has played an integral role in strengthening francophone arts and culture in Manitoba,” said Michelle Gervais, president, CCFM. “The centre is the place where people can experience their culture in French, enrich and affirm their identity as francophones. But more than that, it is an economic and identity attribute for all of Manitoba. To the Manitoba government, thank you for your confidence in us, your attentiveness, your support, your partnership and your dedication to the francophone community.''
Budget 2024 delivers on the Manitoba government’s commitment to strengthen communities through funding for Manitoba’s arts, sports and heritage programs.
To learn more about Budget 2024, visit www.manitoba.ca/budget2024/.
To learn more about CCFM, visit https://ccfm.mb.ca.
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