Following our recent post on funding cuts to national heritage programs, the BC Historical Federation is highlighting the growing impact of provincial funding reductions across Canada.

As a member of the Canada History Collective, the BCHF is deeply concerned about the challenges being faced by our partners in several provinces. In Alberta, funding reductions are threatening the work of the Historical Society of Alberta and its local chapters—organizations that have preserved archives and community stories for generations. In Nova Scotia, twelve provincial museum sites have been permanently closed, a devastating loss to the communities and volunteers who sustained them.

These examples reflect a broader national pattern. Across the country, many provinces and territories are scaling back support for museums, archives, and local history projects. Combined with reductions to national programs, these cuts place enormous strain on the volunteers, researchers, and local societies who safeguard Canada’s historical record.

In response, the Canada History Collective Steering Committee has reached out in support of the Historical Society of Alberta and the Royal Nova Scotia Historical Society, emphasizing solidarity among Canada’s independent historical organizations. The BCHF joins these voices in reaffirming our shared values: inclusion, evidence-based storytelling, preservation, accessibility, professionalism, and transparency.

At a time when resources are shrinking, cooperation and advocacy are more critical than ever. The BCHF continues to stand with our partners across the country, supporting the preservation and sharing of Canada’s diverse histories—work that strengthens communities and connects us all.

Together, we honour our past by protecting the institutions and people who keep it alive.