The City of Calgary is a Cultural Capital of Canada for 2012 and will receive important support to continue to grow its vibrant arts scene, thanks to an investment by the Harper Government.

“Our Government has made unprecedented investments in the arts, and we appreciate Calgary’s commitment to promoting Canadian culture,” said Lee Richardson, MP for Calgary Centre. “Calgary is one of Canada’s fastest growing and most vibrant cities, and we look forward to working with the city on its upcoming centennial anniversaries to continue to promote the arts, boost tourism, and grow our economy.”

“This is an honour for Calgary that recognizes the importance and vitality of our arts and culture sector,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “Calgarians take great pride in supporting culture, and 2012 will be an opportunity to share that pride with all Canadians and further develop our cultural industries.”

In 2012, Calgary will celebrate 100 years of cultural accomplishments and set the path for growth over the next century. Next year’s centennial celebrations of some of the city’s cultural cornerstones, including the Calgary Stampede, the Calgary Public Library, the Pumphouse Theatre, and the Grand Theatre, will mark a pivotal point in Calgary’s history.

The Cultural Capital of Canada designation is awarded on the basis of a candidate community’s achievements that demonstrate an ongoing commitment to the arts and culture. Designated municipalities must also propose a series of projects that celebrate the arts and culture and integrate them into overall community planning. The program’s objective is to stimulate sustained community support for the arts and heritage.

The Niagara Region was also designated a Cultural Capital of Canada for 2012 today

The following are the remarks made by Lee Richardson at the announcement of Calgary being named a Cultural Capital.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Calgary has an exciting year ahead of it

It will be a year of very special anniversaries, as you celebrate the centennials of the Stampede, the Calgary Public Library, the Pumphouse Theatre, and — last but not least — this historic Grand Theatre.

Today, I have the honour of announcing that Calgary has been designated as a Cultural Capital of Canada for 2012. One other municipality will also receive this award — the Niagara Region in Ontario. Congratulations to both communities!

The Cultural Capitals program provides special funding to cities that, like Calgary, have made arts and culture a central part of community life.

Your city’s track record on promoting the arts is exceptional.

Your proposal for 2012 is impressive. The projects you have planned will involve citizens in meaningful celebrations, while building a cultural legacy for the community.

As a Cultural Capital, Calgary could receive up to $1,625,000 for these initiatives.

I commend the efforts of all the Calgary residents who helped make the city such a strong candidate.

Throughout 2012, as you reflect on your heritage and build for your future, you can all be proud of your contribution to Calgary’s reputation as a city of culture.