The Governor General I am delighted to send my warmest greetings to the participants and audiences of this year’s imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival. In 10 years, this impressive showcase has grown to become one of the most celebrated and anticipated events on Canada’s cultural calendar. From coast to coast to coast, talented Aboriginal artists have come to inspire us, both seasoned veterans who have captivated audiences for years, and newcomers to the rapidly expanding field of film and media arts. As I recently had the opportunity to express during an exciting visit to Canada’s North, it is essential that Aboriginal people have the tools they need to ensure that they are involved in developing their communities and contributing to national prosperity. It is equally important that they preserve their cultures, languages and knowledge that has been passed down from one generation to the next. It is through these celebrations of artistic expression that we are able, as a country, to reaffirm the critical role our First Nations, Inuit and Métis sisters and brothers play in the growth of our nation. I applaud all of this year’s participating artists and I wish everyone a memorable experience.
Michaëlle Jean
Prime Minister I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to everyone attending the 2009 imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival, which this year celebrates its 10th anniversary. This festival welcomes a variety of established and emerging Aboriginal artists from across Canada, giving audiences an opportunity to view a diverse range of film, video and new media productions. Over the years, the festival has become the largest of its kind in North America and a leading event in Toronto’s independent film circuit. I am certain that everyone in attendance will be inspired by this exceptional showcase of Indigenous media art productions. I would like to commend the event organizers —imagineNATIVE— for promoting Aboriginal languages, arts and culture. Special thanks are also due to the many volunteers who contribute to making this festival such a great success. Please accept my best wishes for a memorable 10th anniversary celebration and a most enjoyable festival.
The Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper, P.C., M.P. Ottawa 2009
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