Minister of Environment and Parks Jason Nixon and Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women Leela Sharon Aheer issued the following statements on Recreation and Parks Month

“We are pleased to recognize Recreation and Parks Month in the Province of Alberta.

“Albertans are lucky to have such a beautiful backyard, conserved by the collective efforts of so many throughout the province’s history. We want to thank the individual Albertans and civil society organizations who work so hard to keep our province beautiful.”

Jason Nixon, Minister of Environment and Parks

“As we begin to reconnect with friends, loved ones and family, we are also beginning to re-engage in sport, recreation, physical activity and leisure. All of these factors give us a deeper appreciation for the impact that movement has on our mind, body and spirit.

“Recreation and Parks Month is a superb opportunity to get outside and get active to benefit our mental and physical health. May we all have the opportunity to embrace Alberta’s picturesque natural beauty and to remind ourselves of the value that recreation and parks add to our lives.

“I wish you all a safe, active and enjoyable Recreation and Parks Month.”

Leela Sharon Aheer, Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women

https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=715049BD0F011-F061-E8B4-9BE64F35859329DE

What is “June is Recreation and Parks Month”?

At the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association, we recognize the month of June as “June is Recreation and Parks Month” (JRPM). JRPM highlights the many benefits that recreation and parks bring to our communities, and acknowledges the strong foundation of parks and recreation facilities & programs in Alberta. Celebrating JRPM draws attention to the many benefits of recreation and parks for individual Albertans, communities, and the province.

Our long-term vision is to make JRPM a household name, so that when June rolls around, Albertans are eager and excited to spend the month (and beyond) enjoying all of the recreation activities and parks facilities that they have at their disposal.

This year JRPM will be focusing on connecting people, together and with nature, through recreation and parks. The beginning of 2020 has been filled with trials and tribulations that has left individuals with a sense of disconnect. Whether we are isolating or practicing physical distancing, humanity still needs connection. What better way to do so, even while practicing physical distancing, than through recreational activities and parks? JRPM is an exciting initiative that can be used to promote connection and healing. Use #JRPMConnect in your social media posts so that we can see what you are doing this June!

SOCIAL MEDIA CONTEST

Use the hashtag #JRPMConnect on social media, along with a photo of you, your municipality, your workplace, or your family participating in a June is Recreation and Parks Month activity. You could win a $100 gift card!

Click here for more information.

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day for all Canadians to celebrate and learn more about the unique cultures and traditions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples - participate in activities in your community or plan your own event. Check out how you can participate here!