Nominations are open for the Alberta Newcomer Recognition Awards, which celebrate immigrants who make outstanding contributions to our communities.
Anyone can nominate a newcomer who has enriched the province through volunteer activities, leadership, innovation in business, achievements in their academic or professional field, or by creating more welcoming and inclusive communities.
Award categories recognize the accomplishments of youth, women, seniors, entrepreneurs, academics, professionals and community builders. Up to two nominees may be awarded in each category.
“Alberta is stronger because of the many immigrants who add to the social, economic and cultural fabric of our province. Newcomers bring new ideas, skills and talents. They fill labour shortages, start their own businesses and take active roles in their neighbourhoods, schools and workplaces. It is important that we take the time to honour these remarkable individuals.”
Muhammad Yaseen, Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism
Submissions are evaluated based on criteria such as the nominee’s overall contribution, how their actions fulfilled a need and impacted others, and how they demonstrated leadership and originality when problem solving.
Nominations are being accepted through an online portal. The deadline to apply is July 31.
The awards program is one of many government initiatives to help newcomers transition to life in Alberta and empower Albertans to share their diversity and cultures with others.
Quick facts
Nominations are open until July 31.
The awards include nine categories: Career and Academics Contribution, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Inclusive Workplaces, Newcomer Champion, Senior Spirit Award, Small Community Enhancement, Student Inspiration, Women’s Newcomer Impact, and Young Leader.
Nominations must be submitted through an online portal.
To be eligible, nominees must:
be an individual (not a group or organization)
have not received a similar Government of Alberta award
have been born outside Canada (but can have lived in Canada for many years)
be a permanent resident or Canadian citizen
have no criminal conviction for which a pardon has not been received
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
Today marks National Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This is a time to listen, learn, and celebrate diverse Indigenous cultures and the outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.
On this day, we also pause to remember the souls that were lost in the Residential School system and recommit ourselves to a better future.
Today we celebrate the rich and vibrant culture of Canada's First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples and their contributions to our province. I was delighted to join our Minister of Indigenous Relations@Richard4Alberta, yesterday at the Alberta government celebration. #ab#abpolipic.twitter.com/BSOVvaa8gm
Today is National Indigenous Peoples' Day. A time to recognize, learn and celebrate the diversity and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. pic.twitter.com/EQpEOLGZIL
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
Alberta’s government is paying tribute to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by ensuring her name is a lasting and prominent fixture at Alberta’s legislature grounds.
In September 2022, the government announced that the former Federal Building, located on the northeast corner of the legislature grounds, would be renamed to honour her life and historic 70-year reign.
Following that announcement, a brass plaque has been installed on the building to serve as a historical marker.
The plaque reads:
In celebration of Her late Majesty’s life and Platinum Jubilee, this building was officially renamed the Queen Elizabeth II building on September 27, 2022, by Premier Jason Kenney and Minister of Infrastructure Nicholas Milliken.
“Last year, Albertans joined citizens of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms in celebrating the life and mourning the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. We are proud to present this plaque that will serve as a permanent reminder of Her late Majesty’s life, legacy and connection to Alberta.”
Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Infrastructure
“Queen Elizabeth II played an important role in our history and our cherished system of government for seven decades. This building will stand as a meaningful reminder of her extraordinary dedication to service for future generations of Albertans.”
Lt.-Gov. Salma Lakhani
“Queen Elizabeth II visited Alberta a total of six times during her life, forging a strong bond with our province and its people. We honour that connection now by creating a permanent home for Her late Majesty’s memory here at the seat of democracy in Alberta, our legislature grounds.”
Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Alberta Legislative Assembly
Updated Queen Elizabeth II Building signs and wayfinding signs around the legislature grounds will be installed over the summer.
Quick facts
Originally designed in the 1930s for the Government of Canada, the Queen Elizabeth II Building’s construction was delayed by the Great Depression and Second World War.
The structure housed federal staff from 1958 until 1988, when its occupants moved to the newly built Canada Place in downtown Edmonton.
The building sat empty from 1988 to 2010, when the Government of Alberta began redeveloping it to serve as offices for MLAs and government staff. The first of more than 600 people began working in the building in February 2015.
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
As Ramadan comes to an end for Muslims in Red Deer-North and beyond, we hope you have a wonderful celebration feast that is filled with joy and laughter.
All Albertans are encouraged to reflect on the many contributions that Canadian Muslims have made to our province and extend best wishes for a peaceful Eid al-Fitr.
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
Happy Vaisakhi to the Hindus and Sikhs of Red Deer-North and around the world.
Vaisakhi – sometimes spelled “Baisakhi” – is a spring harvest festival. This year, it’s being celebrated on Friday, April 14.
We hope this spring harvest festival brings you joy and prosperity and good fortune to all who celebrate.
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
The Alberta film and television industry has momentum, and Alberta’s government is helping to make the province a magnet for the job-creating screen-based sector.
In 2020, Alberta’s government launched the Film and Television Tax Credit, causing the province’s film and television industry to grow in size and reputation. Since then, Alberta has attracted 129 productions with a total production value of $1.7 billion. This growth has resulted in approximately 9,000 direct and indirect jobs for Albertans.
To keep this momentum going, Alberta’s government continues to make changes to the program and increase investment in it. One year after the tax credit was launched, the cap was raised, resulting in a doubling of the province’s film and television sector. Now, Alberta’s government is increasing its investment to a total of $335 million over three years to continue attracting the attention and investment dollars of Hollywood.
“Alberta is experiencing exponential growth in our film and television sector, and we are well on our way to becoming a top Canadian jurisdiction for producers from around the world. Since the introduction of the Film and Television Tax Credit, the film and television sector in Alberta has doubled. Productions reach every part of Alberta – big cities, small towns and rural locations – and use local resources, businesses, accommodations and contractors, supporting thousands of jobs.”
Brian Jean, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development
Watch the video on growing the Alberta film and television industry.
As the province’s film and television industry grows, so does the quality and number of Alberta-made productions. To help grow and promote local talent and productions, Alberta’s government is also doubling the funding to the Alberta Made Screen Industries Program. This funding will support local producers and attract productions from around the world to set up shop in Alberta.
“Alberta-made film and television productions showcase Alberta’s unique culture, breathtaking landscapes and stories to audiences across the globe. We are increasing our support to smaller productions because they provide a unique Alberta-made training ground for emerging talent and create local, highly skilled workers in the sector.”
Jason Luan, Minister of Culture
The Film and Television Tax Credit and Alberta Made Screen Industries Program work together to showcase the beauty and diversity of Alberta, create jobs, diversify the economy and support hospitality, service and tourism in the province. These targeted incentives to the film and television industries are helping to ensure Alberta remains the economic engine of Canada for years to come and the next film and television hub.
“The tax credit is central to the success of the industry. This is a competitive industry globally, and here in Alberta we’re fortunate we had the cap removed. Now we can see productions with budgets from $100,000 to well over $100 million. Now that we have a robust production environment, there are more opportunities for people to have well-paying creative jobs.”
Damian Petti, president, I.A.T.S.E. Local 212 Calgary
“The Alberta government has provided supports for the film and television industry that provide certainty. It gives us more flexibility in how we’re moving forward in our film and television work and the way that we’re running our businesses.”
Janet Morhart, COO/co-executive producer, Prairie Dog Film and Television
“Seeing the increase to the Alberta Made Production Grant in the last budget has been fantastic. It will help grow the local industry, which means so much to local performers because that’s where they build their resumés. It allows them to be a working performer, and not take side jobs or a day job somewhere else, and really focus on their craft.”
Tina Alford, branch representative, Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Arts (ACTRA) Alberta
Quick facts
According to Statistics Canada data:
Every $1 million of production activity in the screen-based production sector creates about 13 Alberta jobs.
Every $1 million of government investment under the Film and Television Tax Credit program is expected to support about 85 Alberta jobs.
The film and television industry is experiencing significant growth nationally and globally.
Every year, Alberta graduates more than 3,000 creative industry professionals from its post-secondary institutions.
The production workforce has grown 71 per cent from 2017, or by about 4,000 workers across all positions.
Alberta’s Film and Television Tax Credit supports medium- and large-scale productions with costs over $499,999 through a refundable tax credit on eligible Alberta production and labour costs to corporations that produce films, television series and other eligible screen-based productions.
The Alberta Made Production Grant supports productions with a budget of up to $499,999.
The Alberta Made Screen Industries Program, through the Alberta Made Production Grant, supports smaller productions that do not qualify for the tax credit, covering 25 per cent of eligible Alberta production costs to a maximum of $125,000.
Every $1 investment in the Alberta Made Production Grant program generates an additional $4 in economic return.
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
Budget 2023 invests $9 million into a new reconciliation grant program for Indigenous communities and $15 million into building a safer province for Indigenous women.
Alberta’s government is committed to collaborating with Indigenous communities and walking the path of reconciliation together. Budget 2023 invests in Indigenous-led community solutions to affect meaningful change over time.
The Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative will provide grants of up to $100,000 to support cultural and economic opportunities for Indigenous communities in Alberta.
“Reconciliation is about working with Indigenous leaders and communities to address past harms and build a brighter future. Budget 2023’s investment supports Indigenous-led solutions with funding designed to meet the needs of communities. I look forward to the good that will come from these new grants.”
Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations
The economic stream of the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative will provide capacity and opportunity development funding for community-owned projects or businesses. Funding is available for a range of business activities, including business plan development, environmental impact assessments, marketing plans and similar strategic initiatives necessary for long-term success.
Funding through the cultural stream will support traditional arts programs, language initiatives, research on oral histories and protocol items, and a range of projects that help revitalize language, culture and traditions.
A total of $3 million in grants will be available each year for three years through the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative’s two funding streams.
“As an Indigenous Elder, I am heartened to see the steps being taken by the Government of Alberta towards reconciliation. It is through acknowledging and addressing the injustices of the past that we can move towards a more just and equitable future for all.”
Elder Charles Fox, Kainai Blood Tribe
To address the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people, Budget 2023 invests $15 million over three years.
Of this, $3.5 million annually in grants will be available through the Community Support Fund. This grant initiative will support community projects that address violence and increase safety and economic security for Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people.
An additional $1.5 million each year will support the implementation of the Government of Alberta Roadmap on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, including the Premier’s Council on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, as well as the First Nations and Métis Women’s Councils on Economic Security.
“As a family member and part of the Premier’s Council, I am very hopeful that these funds will lead to implementation of the 113 calls to action. I truly appreciate the province of Alberta for recognizing the need to build safer and stronger Indigenous communities.”
Josie Nepinak, executive director, Awo Taan Healing Lodge Society
Reconciliation is a priority for Alberta’s government. As partners in reconciliation, we are listening to and working with Indigenous Peoples in Alberta to determine the best ways forward to a better future.
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
Ramadan Mubarak! To all Muslims in Red Deer-North and beyond celebrating, may this holy month bring an abundance of blessings and fill you with joy, hope and love.
For those unfamiliar, did you know Ramadan is a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide? It officially begins this evening – Wednesday, March 22, and will continue until the evening of April 20th.
For those unfamiliar, did you know Ramadan is a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide? It officially begins this evening – Wednesday, March 22, and will continue until the evening of April 20th.
During this time, Muslims are called on to abstain from eating or drinking from sunrise to sunset. This is to remember those who are less fortunate and practice gratitude.
As always, Red Deer-North constituents with questions or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
Ukrainian refugees coming to Alberta will have increased assistance in settling in the province.
The Government of Alberta will provide an additional $2.1 million in Budget 2023, if passed, for pre-arrival service supports. The government will also implement a Ukrainian Help Line to streamline information and resources.
“Our government is committed to helping the thousands of Ukrainians seeking refuge here,” said Premier Danielle Smith in a release.
“Thanks to the efforts of so many tireless volunteers in addition to work by our government, Ukrainian newcomers have access to numerous resources available to them to integrate into communities across Alberta smoothly and successfully.”
Watch the Press Conference.
Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, Alberta has welcomed 26,572 Ukrainians. More than $28 million has been directed towards supports and services to help evacuees resettle.
The additional funding builds on that, and will be put towards measures recommended by the Premier’s Advisory Task Force on Ukraine.
“The task force has done crucial work in uncovering gaps in supports for Ukrainian evacuees. It also ensured we are providing support where it will have the biggest impact,” said Rajan Sawhney, minister of trade, immigration, and multiculturalism.
“As a government, we have a responsibility to get this right for these evacuees, and the advice from the task force is ensuring we do.”
Help line for Ukrainian refugees
The creation of a help line is one such recommendation from the advisory task force. According to the group, Ukrainian nationals were having trouble navigating complex programming and applications. The help line will ensure Ukrainian evacuees and organizations serving them can get timely, accurate information in the language they are most comfortable with.
Ongoing supports
Other previously announced Budget 2023 supports for Ukrainian evacuees also reflect task force input and include:
$7 million over three years for settlement and language supports to help agencies and immigrant-serving organizations meet increased service demand.
$9.9 million for social housing and rent supplement programs, through Alberta’s Rent Supplement Program, to address growing waitlists and support Ukrainian newcomers eligible for these programs. This is on top of the additional $6.8 million made available in late 2022-23.
$3.6 million to support emergency and ongoing financial benefits similar to those provided through the Income Support program. In addition, the Evacuee Emergency Financial Support and Benefits program, launched in March 2022 to provide emergency benefits for Ukrainian evacuees, will be extended to January 2024 to ensure both new and existing applicants can receive emergency or ongoing financial benefits.
$1.5 million, through the new Ukrainian Student Benefit, for post-secondary institutions to continue providing financial supports for Ukrainian newcomer students. Eligibility for Alberta apprenticeship education programs has also been expanded to allow Ukrainian temporary residents to participate.
Alberta’s government will continue to work with immigrant-serving and community organizations to identify supports needed, as well as ensure supports complement any federal government services. Alberta also continues to work with other provinces and territories to lobby the federal government to provide additional support for Ukrainian evacuees and announce plans to address the future of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program in 2023 and beyond.
Alberta’s government will continue to prioritize the assessment of permanent residency applications by Ukrainian nationals through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. Candidates must still meet all program criteria.
Budget 2023 secures Alberta’s future by transforming the health-care system to meet people’s needs, supporting Albertans with the high cost of living, keeping our communities safe and driving the economy with more jobs, quality education and continued diversification.
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
Alberta is making efforts to fight racism and build inclusive communities through Budget 2023.
The province is investing $9.5 million into grant programs to combat racism and promote multiculturalism.
This includes $8 million over three years for the ethnocultural grant program that will promote cross-cultural understanding and multiculturalism. In addition, Alberta’s government will provide $1.5 million over three years to support the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grant Program (MARG).
“It is vital that we continue to support efforts that address racism and help with cross-cultural understanding. Budget 2023 will provide funding to support multicultural and anti-racism initiatives. Alberta’s government will continue to find new ways to make safer communities for everyone,” said Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Trade, Immigration and Multiculturalism in a release.
Watch the press conference.
Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations for anti-racism initiatives and projects that foster inclusion and respect. Grants can go towards supporting cultural events, festivals, workshops and training.
Indigenous, Inuit and Métis, multicultural and faith-based groups are eligible to receive up to $30,000. Any non-profit, including those in Red Deer-North, looking to teach more about their culture is encouraged to apply.
The new ethnocultural grants will provide funding to a variety of multicultural groups. These grants will support intercultural and interfaith connections, helping ethnocultural groups end racism and providing Albertans with opportunities to participate and celebrate Indigenous culture.
MARG and the new ethnocultural grant program complement existing government initiatives, including Alberta’s Anti-Racism Action Plan.
Bhupinder Singh Chattha, secretary of the Sikh Society of Calgary says they are extremely grateful for the approval of their grant application, which will help them showcase their own culture in the summer.
“This grant will enable us to plan an event during the summers at Sikh Society Calgary that will showcase the Sikh culture, its traditions, books, arts and military museum exhibits to reflect on Sikhism,” he said. “
This event is needed so that all Albertans have a better understanding of people from other cultures and their struggles to resist anti-racism. The event will be free for all and lots of free food stalls will be there for everyone to enjoy the day at Sikh Society Calgary grounds.”
Red Deer-North constituents with questions, concerns or comments can reach out to the local constituency office. They can do so via the form on the contact page or by phoning (403) 342–2263.
