Harper Government Encourages Canadians to Get Involved in Commemorations of the War of 1812

GATINEAU, QC, June 17, 2012 /CNW/ - Canadians from coast to coast to coast are encouraged to get involved in activities being held in communities across the country to mark the 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812.

"Canada's history is an incredibly rich story, and the 'Fight for Canada' is indeed one of the richest stories," said the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages. "I encourage all Canadians to take part in the activities that commemorate what was a defining chapter in Canada's history."

Tomorrow, June 18, 2012, marks the 200^th anniversary of the start of the war that would become the "Fight for Canada." The Harper Government encourages all Canadians to mark this anniversary by participating in activities being held across the country:

June 18, St. John's - International Peace Memorial Event with simultaneous re-enactments in Put-in-Bay, Ohio, hosted by Parks Canada

June 18, Halifax - Special ceremony at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, with the Royal Canadian Mint launching a new 1812 circulation coin and Canada Post unveiling two new 1812 stamps

June to October, Lacolle - New 1812 Interpretation Centre with highlights of the War of 1812, such as artifacts and Voltigeurs uniforms

June 19, Kingston - Opening of the new Fort Henry Discovery Centre at the Fort Henry National Historic Site

June 18, Fort York - Official launch of the Commemoration activities for the 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812 by the Harper Government

June 18, Fort George - 200^th Anniversary of the War of 1812 Evening hosted by Parks Canada, with the grand opening of the new museum and interactive "Experience" and the premiere of the sound and light show

June 18, Gananoque - Official opening of the new Joel Stone Heritage Park, in honour of the town founder and War of 1812 hero

June 2012 to January 2013, Ottawa - An exhibit titled 1812 at the Canadian War Museum

June 25, Vancouver - Official opening of the War of 1812 Experience at Canada Place

"The heroic efforts of those who fought for our country in the War of 1812 tell the story of the Canada we know today: an independent and free country with a constitutional monarchy and its own distinct parliamentary system," said Minister Moore. "The 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812 is an opportunity for all of us to take pride in our history, and we look forward to taking part in the events and activities that will mark this important anniversary for Canada."

The Harper Government is investing in activities for all Canadians to learn more about the War of 1812. For more information, visit 1812.gc.ca.