(Brantford, Ontario) – A Government of Canada grant in the amount of $15,000 is helping the Brantford International Villages Festival to celebrate cultural diversity this summer. The announcement was made today by Brant MP, Phil McColeman, on behalf of The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

“It is important to celebrate our rich cultural diversity,” said Mr. McColeman. “The Brantford International Villages Festival provides a great opportunity for friends and family to come together and celebrate their heritage.”

This year marks the 38th year for the festival which runs from July 6 -9, 2011.

“This federal funding couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Pat Eyzenga, President of the Brantford International Villages Festival. “We have fifteen villages participating in this year’s event and this funding will go a long way to making the festival a huge success.”

Funding for the festival is through the Government of Canada’s Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program.  The program was implemented in 2007 and provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. The program will benefit many community events and celebrations throughout Canada this year.