Canada Launches Changing Narratives Fund to Promote Diversity in Media and Culture

Gatineau, QC — The Government of Canada is taking a strong step toward promoting diversity and inclusion in the media and cultural industries with the launch of the Changing Narratives Fund. Announced by the Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, the new initiative will empower diverse voices in these industries, ensuring that their stories and perspectives are more accurately reflected across Canada.

The Fund aims to foster a more inclusive media landscape by supporting underrepresented communities, including Indigenous, Black, racialized groups, ethno-religious minorities, 2SLGBTQI+, and persons with disabilities. This initiative is part of Canada’s broader commitment to fighting discrimination, as outlined in the federal government’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate.

Significant Investment for Change

Budget 2024 has allocated $10 million over three years for the Changing Narratives Fund, with $3 million set aside for each of the 2024-25 and 2025-26 fiscal years and $4 million for 2026-27. The funding will focus on enhancing participation by diverse communities in Canada’s screen, media, and journalism industries.

“This investment is crucial in advancing inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility, while addressing racism and discrimination. Through the Changing Narratives Fund, we’re taking meaningful steps to ensure that more Canadians appreciate and understand the diversity that defines our country,” said Minister St-Onge.

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Many remarkable people within the 2SLGBTQI+ community fight every day against homophobia and transphobia.

Gala Émergence highlights the work of some of them, and I want to thank those who fought before us for our rights and keep doing so every day. pic.twitter.com/ffkpmEkZL5

— Pascale St-Onge (@PascaleStOnge_) October 21, 2024

Broad Industry Support and Opportunity

The Fund will support mentorship, training, and professional development at various stages of media careers, opening doors for diverse communities. It will also offer internships and work placements to provide hands-on experience in the media and cultural sectors.

The Changing Narratives Fund will be administered by existing programs, including the Canada Media Fund, the Canada Periodical Fund’s Collective Initiatives, and the Local Journalism Initiative. These programs will cover industries such as television, digital media, cinematic production, magazines, community newspapers, community radio, and online news services.

Valerie Creighton, President and CEO of the Canada Media Fund, praised the initiative, stating, “Our country’s audiovisual industry thrives on the unique perspectives of Indigenous and Canadian storytellers. The Changing Narratives Fund will create even more opportunities for diverse voices to contribute to the rich tapestry of stories that shape our nation.”

Next Steps

The Canada Media Fund will launch its programming component in November 2024, with further details on the Changing Narratives Fund to be available on the Canadian Heritage website in the coming weeks. The government encourages all diverse communities and media organizations to stay informed about upcoming funding opportunities.

This initiative is seen as a significant step forward in addressing the lack of diversity in Canada’s media and cultural sectors, ensuring that the rich stories and experiences of all communities are heard, appreciated, and valued by Canadians from coast to coast.

For more information, visit the Canadian Heritage website and the Changing Narratives Fund page.

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