Celebrate Vaughan 2016 | Page 52

SUPPORT AND PROMOTE ARTS, CULTURE, HERITAGE AND SPORTS IN THE COMMUNITY CELEBRATING ARTS, CULTURE AND HERITAGE One of Vaughan’s greatest strengths is its diversity. As a multicultural community where 99 different languages are spoken, the City promotes equality, inclusiveness, respect and tolerance for will guide the development and acquisition of public art to enhance the City’s image and identity. Cultural celebrations, such as Chinese New Year, Israel Independence Day and Italian Heritage Day, give us a chance to honour our historical traditions and ensure that future generations will preserve and appreciate our rich heritage. everyone who lives here. The City proudly embraces its diversity through art and public events. The On the Slate art gallery in City Hall is a place to display the talent of local artists. In 2016, artists from across the GTA were invited to interpret the theme of Inspired Cities and wh at defines and celebrates the heart and identity of metropolitan cities. Arts and culture has also become one of the driving forces in municipal planning. The Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) Culture and Public Art Framework, approved by Council in 2016, outlines the vision for development of creative industries, cultural hubs, and arts and programming in the City’s new downtown. The Citywide Public Art Program The City of Vaughan embarked on a new era in 2015 as it welcomed a professional soccer team. Toronto FC II announced it would make Vaughan and the Ontario Soccer Centre its home. The team played its first home game on July 8, 2015. TFC II competes in the United Soccer League (USL). MORE THAN BOOKS! The Civic Centre Resource Library is now open at Major Mackenzie Drive and Keele Street. This state-of-the-art facility features a reading garden, interactive family space, meeting rooms, a drive-through book return and so much more.