Culture and Community Spirit Budget 2011

The Alberta government has a balanced, proactive vision for 2011-12 – one that holds a responsible line on expenditures while taking advantage of the downturn to make strategic investments for the future. As part of that vision, we remain committed to the goals of our cultural policy, The Spirit of Alberta, and its four keystones of Access, Capacity, Excellence and fostering Cultural Industries.

We recognize the immense role our cultural industries, the arts and heritage communities and the nonprofit/voluntary sector play in enhancing the quality of life for all Albertans; and building a better Alberta. Our continued investment in these areas will result in even greater economic, cultural and social returns.

The total budgeted program expense for Culture and Community Spirit in 2011-12 is $225 million.

Nonprofit/Voluntary Sector
Alberta's nonprofit/voluntary sector is a significant part of the fabric of our communities. With over 20,000 registered societies and charities and an estimated annual impact of $9 billion; the sector is a key contributor to the high quality of life we enjoy in this province. Budget 2011 provides $105 million for community voluntary support services, including:

Heritage

The Government of Alberta is committed to ensuring our province's vibrant cultural legacy is strengthened and preserved for generations to come. Budget 2011 provides $47 million to protect and promote Alberta's history and heritage.

Programming to help students learn about Alberta's history and heritage will continue to be offered. Funding will also continue to be available to owners of protected historical places to help safeguard Alberta's significant historic places and extend their physical life. Budget 2011 also includes investments in the municipal heritage partnership program and heritage preservation; as well as support to the Royal Alberta Museum, the Royal Tyrrell Museum and other provincial museums and historic sites.

Human Rights and Diversity

Albertans want to live in a province where citizens have the right to live free from discrimination. In 2009-10, 96 per cent of Albertans indicated an environment free of discrimination is important to the overall quality of life in their community. Budget 2011 provides $7.2 million to reduce discrimination and support stronger, healthier and more tolerant communities:

Responsibility for the Alberta Human Rights Commission and the Human Rights Education and Multiculturalism Fund
now rests with Alberta Justice. Read details in the news release.

Arts and Cultural Industries

Alberta's cultural sector not only enhances quality of life; and helps attract and retain a skilled workforce, but also results in a $4.6 billion benefit to the provincial economy. This sector delivers a measurable, competitive edge for the province. Budget 2011 provides $58 million for arts and cultural industries, including:

Budget 2011
2011-12 Estimates for Culture and Community Spirit

Last reviewed/revised: December 1, 2011