April 20, 2010

Statement about Asian Heritage Month

J. Kwan: May is recognized as Asian Heritage Month across Canada. On May 29, 2001, Sen. Vivienne Poy introduced a motion in the Senate to recognize Asian Heritage Month in order to acknowledge the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada.

Quoting from her speech, the senator said: "While various cities in Canada hold events to celebrate Asian heritage, British Columbia is the only province to have officially declared May as Asian Heritage Month. It first declared it in 1996 and has since proclaimed it on an annual basis.” Indeed, since 1996 the annual festival is called explorAsian.

The Vancouver Asian Heritage Month Society has organized diverse events that showcase the rich Asian cultures in British Columbia. The definition of "Asian" is inclusive and broad. It includes East Asia, South Asia, Central Asia and Southeast Asia. The art, cultural and educational programming organized by the society provides audiences with an opportunity to further their knowledge, awareness and appreciation of cultural expression through workshops, lectures, displays and exhibitions.

From building the railroad where B.C. joined Confederation to the development of Chinatown and Japantown, the history of Asians in B.C. can be tracked back to the 19th century. Decades of discrimination legislation such as being denied the right to vote, to attend professional schools or even to eat at certain restaurants were only some of the barriers to inclusion that Asian communities faced.

Our province has come a long way, and now we have a large and prosperous Asian community that contributes to B.C. economically, socially and culturally. From the B.C. Legislature, I would like to congratulate and thank the organizers and volunteers for their fine work in the celebration of Asian Heritage Month and encourage everyone to attend this year’s explorAsian festivities.