In February 2026, Library and Archives Canada announced the cancellation of the Documentary Heritage Communities Program (DHCP), a funding program that supported local organizations in their efforts to preserve and provide access to Canada’s documentary heritage. It was a valuable source of funding for community archives as it supported diverse projects, covered 100% of project expenses, and offered considerable amounts of funding. There are very few grants available to community archives—programs like the DHCP are critical to their survival.
This website aims to document advocacy efforts by archivists, archival studies students, and all those concerned about the survival of community archives across Canada. Browse letters written to government officials, view or print out a zine on DHCP advocacy, and check out other resources on cultural heritage advocacy in Canada.
To submit a letter to be posted or to give suggestions or feedback, email Vanessa Lee at vanessayanlee@gmail.com
A map of past DHCP recipients from LAC’s website: