However, in order for rural Newfoundland to survive with dignity, individuals, groups and communities must come togther to discuss, plan and develop ways of responding creatively and productively to the new challenges.

Constructive dialogue and communication are key to the ability to work togther to plan for a better future.

The Rural Newfoundland Cultural Survival Project has been developed and initiated to assist rural people and communities to help themselves to respond effectively to their current realities.

Recognizing and analyzing the strengths, wisdoms and qualities of Newfoundland's cultural past is an important focus of this project. With a renewed pride of place, rural people will be more motivated and empowered to take action towards community survival.

Participants and sponsors within each community will have opportunities to discuss and choose specific cultural survival and community development themes for action.

Community partners will be encouraged and assisted to continue participatory communications activities after the Project.

Initiators, sponsors and participants will work togther to ensure that all communication products are honest and respectful reflection of voices in the community. Efforts will be made to involve as many community voices as possible.

All training activities will combine formal training with hands on , learn as you go informal activities.

Newfoundland is unique in Canada - perhaps in the world - as it has more than 300 communities with their own cable television systems tied in to satellite dishes. Many of these communities are showing their videos now.

Video and film has been used to promote community development in the province for 30 years. Community-based television transmitter projects started here in the 1970s.

Community controlled television is a natural and effective way of exploring and promoting the Newfoundland way of life and for assisting communities solve their own problems.

The Project is much more than acquiring new technical skills in video and television production. We will also work together on the skills of communication required by individuals and groups committed to their communities. We will be learning ways of working in teams planning common goals, as well as developing strategies for getting community involvement in survival projects.

There are many tools in community communications including radio, drama, newsletters, posters, photography and the internet. Together we will choose the most effective means for ensuring all voices are heard.