Lieutenant Governor Lois Mitchell has launched a new educational program to foster greater public awareness of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the First World War battle that is often described as marking the birth of Canada as a nation.
The program includes a SPIRIT of Vimy contest for Albertans aged 14-24. Participants will be encouraged to learn about the history of Vimy Ridge and explore their own personal or local community connections to the battle.
“As a former teacher and proud Canadian, I have a strong interest in sharing the stories, the people and events of our nation’s history. The SPIRIT of Vimy program is an ideal place to begin that work. Our goal is to encourage young Albertans to explore a truly pivotal chapter in our history, to consider the tremendous spirit demonstrated by Canadian soldiers at Vimy, and to bring their own unique spirit and creativity to the task of honouring the contributions of those who fought and fell on our behalf a century ago.”
Contest entries must reflect some or all of the characteristics that Canadian soldiers showed to succeed at Vimy, including Sportsmanship, Perseverance, Integrity, Resiliency, Inspiration and Teamwork. Entries may take a wide range of forms, including video essays, visual arts, creative writing, music composition and choreography.
Contest prizes include the opportunity to retrace the steps of Canada’s heroes at Vimy Ridge. Other prizes include random monthly draws (October to February), as well as a People’s Choice award. The contest will run through February 24, 2017 and the winning entries will be celebrated at the Lieutenant Governor’s Vimy Ridge Centennial event in April 2017.
SPIRIT of Vimy contest details and links to more information about the Battle of Vimy Ridge are at www.SpiritOfVimy.ca.
The SPIRIT of Vimy program is the first initiative from the Lieutenant Governor’s newly created History and Heroes Foundation. The Foundation will continue to introduce additional programming in the years ahead.