Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
February 2, 2011

Cape St. George Memorial Helps Commemorate Journey of Acadians

To commemorate the long history of the Acadian people in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government has contributed $21,702 towards the Great Acadian Upheaval Commemoration Project. The monument, located in Cape St. George, is among several initiatives across Canada and the United States that remember the Grand Dérangement.

“Memorializing the journey of Acadians to Newfoundland and Labrador and other parts of North America helps tell their story to a new generation of francophones and visitors to the area,” said the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs. “In addition to raising awareness of the history of the Acadian people, it also helps strengthen the Acadian community and the spirit of all francophones living in Newfoundland and Labrador.”

The Grand Dérangement, also known as the Great Upheaval, was the forced removal of Acadian people during the Seven Years’ War from the Canadian Maritime Provinces to the British Colonies between 1755 and 1763. While many Acadians were deported to such areas as England, France, Massachusetts, Virginia, and Maryland, others resettled in Louisiana, Quebec, Miquelon, and all around St. George’s Bay on the west coast of Newfoundland.

“I am delighted to have our Acadian heritage celebrated and commemorated,” said Tony Cornect, MHA for Port au Port. “This monument will serve as a permanent tribute to the Acadian legacy which has contributed so much to our unique history and culture.”

The Fédération des Francophones de Terre-Neuve et du Labrador (FFTNL) coordinated the creation of the monument, which was unveiled in November 2010. A non-profit organization, the FFTNL represents the interests of the Acadian and Francophone community of Newfoundland and Labrador.

“The Acadian and Francophone of the province are very proud that the Acadian presence in Newfoundland and Labrador is now recognized by a monument,” said Gaël Corbineau,
Executive Director, FFTNL. “It is a very important step in the long way that led to the preservation of our identity and our culture. The preservation of our heritage also supports the economic development of our communities and helps develop the local tourism sector, which is important to our francophone communities on the Port au Port Peninsula.”

This initiative was funded through the Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund, which through Budget 2010: The Right Investments – For Our Children and Our Future, was increased to an $11 million program. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the program provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.

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2011 02 02                                                     10:20 a.m.