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financial resources and almost completely through voluntary work, with occasional support from patriotic societies based mainly in the’ province of Quebec. In general, the areas where these institutions have been most active are those where the vitality of the

Acadian culture is today the strongest.

It is only since 1970 that such organizations have been receiving government financial support. Grants are being made available to help voluntary groups better contribute to the full development of the Acadian communities in ways which will help

promote and preserve the French language’ and

the Acadian culture.

' The Secretary of State recognizes’ that these organizations have ae_every important role to play aS pressure groups on formal institutions. It is quite aware, also, that

the future and vitality of the Acadian French