Jun 11, 2024
Canada Life is passionate about promoting diversity and advancing reconciliation across Canada. Their long-standing support for Manitoba Opera underscores the transformational role that art and opera can play in making meaningful change, exemplified during Li Keur: Riel’s Heart of the North, the first Indigenous-led opera on a Canadian mainstage.
Already the Manitoba Opera’s Education and Community Engagement Sponsor during the 2023/24 season, Canada Life made a special gift towards this groundbreaking production, marking a positive step forward towards reconciliation. The decision to sponsor this innovative project stems from Canada Life’s ethos of celebrating diversity and inclusion through the sharing of stories and experiences.
“At Canada Life, we recognize that the diversity of our communities helps make us stronger,” emphasizes the representative. “It’s through stories and art like Li Keur that we’re inspired to act from a place of curiosity, care, and authenticity.”
Li Keur: Riel’s Heart of the North provided an entry point for celebrating Métis culture through Indigenous storytelling, language revitalization, and intercultural exchange. The importance of preserving Indigenous languages and cultures cannot be overstated.
“Although their influence is felt across the country, the Red River Métis are a founding culture of Manitoba,” states the representative. “The traditional languages of the Métis are endangered, and initiatives like Li Keur play a pivotal role in reclaiming Métis language and identity.”
Looking beyond immediate impact, Canada Life envisions long-term outcomes that contribute to a more inclusive and culturally rich society. “Our hope is that the long-term outcomes of sponsoring works like Li Keur will be to assist in fostering greater belonging and inclusion in our communities and across our country,” expresses the representative.
As Canada Life continues to champion the arts, diversity, and reconciliation, its partnership with Manitoba Opera stands as an example of the profound impact that collaboration and shared values can have on shaping a vibrant and inclusive society. Together, they illuminate the path towards a future where cultural richness thrives, and every individual feels seen, valued, and embraced for who they are.
