What does culture mean to you? How do you participate in it? Government wants feedback to these questions and more as it develops a Culture Action Plan.

“Nova Scotians love music, art, theatre, libraries, heritage and our many diverse cultures. We want to work with Nova Scotians to preserve and enhance our rich culture,” said Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Tony Ince. “Great variety of input and lots of it are the keys to a successful Culture Action Plan.”

People can share their feedback online by completing a short survey in French or English or by uploading a creative representation, for example, a song, image or poem, of what culture in Nova Scotia means to them. Go to http://cultureconversationsns.ca for details and to provide feedback. Other opportunities include in-person events at four communities with venues and dates being announced soon.

“This action plan is the most comprehensive process ever taken to explore Nova Scotia’s cultural identity and opportunities,” said Pamela Scott Crace, chair of the Creative Nova Scotia Leadership Council. “We’ve had in-depth conversations with sector stakeholders across the province, and now we will hear directly from Nova Scotians what culture means to them as citizens.”

Over the last several months, government met with about 1,000 people who work in the culture sector. Feedback was provided through group meetings and an online survey. This input helped shape the public consultation.

Once the consultations are completed, it is expected that Nova Scotia’s first Culture Action Plan will be released this fall.

Through the Culture Action Plan government will identify opportunities to strengthen culture and help build a prosperous future.

Nova Scotia’s strong and vibrant culture sector contributes to the province’s quality of life and economy, providing $949 million to the gross domestic product and about 14,000 jobs in 2014.

Source: Release