NDP MLA Jennifer Rice says more people will enjoy improved arts spaces in the North Coast

SKIDEGATE – New Democrat MLA Jennifer Rice says more people in the North Coast will benefit from improved arts spaces and facilities thanks to the BC New Democrat government’s continued support of artists throughout B.C.

“Here in North Coast we are so lucky to have facilities such as the Haida Heritage Centre and Haida Gwaii Museum at Ḵay Llnagaay where we are able to visit and experience Haida arts and culture,” said Jennifer Rice, MLA for North Coast. “I am happy that we are funding improvements that will continue to help preserve and promote the rich history and culture of Haida Gwaii through those facilities and organizations like the Tluu Xaada Naay Society.”

3 artists and organizations in Haida Gwaii will be benefitting from this Arts Infrastructure funding, including:

  • Tluu Xaada Naay Society
  • Haida Gwaii Museum at Kay Llnagaay
  • Haida Heritage Centre

Through the Arts Infrastructure Program a total of 84 arts and cultural organizations will share in $4 million in grant funding. The program provides grants to arts and cultural organizations to develop and enhance spaces that support B.C.’s arts and cultural practitioners. Eligible activities include planning and consultation and capital improvements, such as improving safety features; increasing accessibility; or purchasing specialized equipment.

In April, the BC Arts Council introduced its Extending Foundations: Action Plan 2022-2024 which marked a shift in focus in the way the council provides funding to respond to calls to action for reconciliation, diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

In alignment with these commitments, 50 per cent of grants in this recent round of Arts infrastructure funding was distributed to organizations from rural or remote communities or those led by or rooted in Indigenous and equity-deserving communities.

Learn More:

To learn more about these grants and see the list of recipients, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022TACS0014-000711