Federal dollars will help Whitecap Dakota plan War of 1812 commemoration

Funding from the federal government will allow the Whitecap Dakota First Nation to research and plan for commemorative activities related to the War of 1812 that will recognize the important part played by the Dakota and other Aboriginal communities. “The War of 1812 was a defining moment in Canada’s history,” said Chief Darcy Bear of the Whitecap Dakota Nation in a news release. “It is often overlooked that the Dakota people played a critical role in this historic achievement, so it is important to remind ourselves of these events and of the fact that First Nations are an integral part of the fabric of this country.” The federal government has provided funding of $49,999 through Canadian Heritage’s War of 1812 Commemoration Fund. The fund supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding among Canadians of the importance of this moment in our history.