News Release

EDMUNDSTON (GNB) – The official opening of the 2014 World Acadian Congress, held in l’Acadie des terres et forêts (the land and forests of Acadie), takes place tonight in Edmundston.

Numerous dignitaries will take part in the ceremony including Premier David Alward, the Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper, Maine governor Paul LePage and former governor general of Canada Michaëlle Jean.

“The provincial government is proud to participate in this unifying event as a partner of a modern Acadie, which is a source of inspiration, pride, and diversity,” said Alward. “For 20 years, the World Acadian Congress has brought together Acadians, Francophones, and Francophiles while strengthening the ties between various cultures and territories.”

With Acadia of the World: A New Acadia! as its theme, the 2014 World Acadian Congress will be held from Aug. 8-24 in the border regions of Maine, Madawaska and Témiscouata, Quebec. It will feature a number of family reunions, exhibition areas, seminars and conferences, and many gatherings and theme days, as well as an economic component.

“The World Acadian Congress is a source of great pride that we share with our cousins in Quebec and Maine,” said Alward. “The strong ties that bind us are proof that we have and will continue to have Acadian culture and Acadie itself in our hearts. Throughout the 2014 Congress, I invite you to join me and share this joie de vivre for which New Brunswick is famous.”