Canadian Museum of History welcomes RBC support of Aboriginal Training Program in Museum Practices

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

Gatineau, Quebec, March 13, 2014 — The Canadian Museum of History is proud to welcome RBC as lead supporter of its Aboriginal Training Program in Museum Practices. The program provides specialized professional and technical training to First Nations, Métis and Inuit people from across Canada who wish to enhance their skills in various aspects of museum work. It is the only program of its kind in the country.

RBC’s contribution will total $225,000 over three years. The funding is provided through the RBC Foundation’s Emerging Artists Project, which supports a wide range of initiatives in the cultural sector. In appreciation of RBC’s generous support, the program — established in 1993 — will be known as the RBC Aboriginal Training Program in Museum Practices.

“For the past 20 years, the hands-on experience acquired through this program has helped participants preserve and present the history and heritage of their own communities, or make other valuable contributions to Canada’s cultural sector,” said Mark O’Neill, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of History. “We thank RBC for its generous support which allows this national program to build further on that solid record of success.”

“We’re proud to support such a unique program.” said Shari Austin, Vice-President, Corporate Citizenship, RBC and Executive Director, RBC Foundation. “RBC is committed to nurturing emerging talent in artistic and cultural disciplines, and to supporting Aboriginal peoples and communities. It is wonderful to be able to do both with this gift.”

The RBC Aboriginal Training Program in Museum Practices is delivered annually by the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum. Supervised by the Museums’ professional staff, participants receive eight months of training and practical experience in a variety of fields, including research, collections, conservation, exhibitions, public programs, public affairs and publishing, development and museum services. Training is available in both official languages. Since its inception in 1993, over 80 Aboriginal trainees have successfully completed the program.

Additional information about the program can be found on the Museum’s website at www.historymuseum.ca. 

The Canadian Museum of History operates the Canadian Museum of History, the Canadian War Museum and the Virtual Museum of New France. Together, these Museums function as centres for research and public information on the history of Canada. Their principal role is to enhance Canadians’ knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the events, experiences, people and objects that have shaped Canada’s history and identity.

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