CALGARY, AB - Report to Prime Minister praises Calgary and links creativity to
sustainability of communities
Community sustainability comes from a culture that faces challenges and adversity, seizes and maximizes possibilities, and develops creative solutions to apparently insoluble problems.
This conclusion, among others, is contained in a report created by the External Advisory Committee on Cities and Communities, a federal
government committee of which EPCOR CENTRE's President and CEO Colin Jackson was a member.
"Our work led us to conclude that 21st Century Canada needs a different
way of governing if our cities and communities are to be prosperous, healthy, inclusive, creative places," explains Colin Jackson. "The report proposes three keys for the ongoing success of Canada - catching up on the infrastructure deficit, increased authority for cities and municipalities and encouraging a culture of creativity."
Recent research has demonstrated that some cities and municipalities encourage creativity and innovation more effectively than others. Those Canadian cities that have recognized the importance of a strong cultural scene are better positioned to meet future challenges and opportunities - creating a prosperous and vibrant community that engenders civic pride and fosters diversity of thought and the inclusion of newcomers.
"It is widely recognized that the big three Canadian cities, Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver, are the major drivers of Canada's economy. This report confirms that Calgary is rapidly becoming Canada's forth major city, a principal force on the economic, political, environmental and cultural success of our nation. Calgarians and Albertans are repeatedly cited as best examples of communities that support risk taking, creative and entrepreneurial approaches. Canada needs more Calgary!"
Established by the federal government in 2004 and charged with examining the sustainability of Canada's cities and communities, the EACCC focused on a long-term vision for the role that communities should play in sustaining our prosperity. This national panel of 13 members, lead by former BC Premier Michael Harcourt, was drawn from many communities and sectors including the arts, as represented by Colin Jackson.
EPCOR CENTRE for the Performing Arts is becoming an internationally recognized centre for production, presentation, learning, advocacy and research for the arts. Here, the creative spirit of Calgarians is
encouraged, enriched and engaged. Join us in this inspiring environment of public places and performance spaces.
