Since the 1990s, May has been designated as Asian Heritage Month. Sen. Vivienne Poy’s resolution to formally declare May as Asian Heritage Month in Canada was approved by the Canadian Senate in December 2001. A formal proclamation designating May as Asian Heritage Month was signed by the Canadian government in May 2002.Photo Courtesy: BC Alliance for Arts + Culture
Asia is not “out there” for Canada; it is, has been, and will continue to be here here, influencing and forming our nation. Over 7.5 million Canadian citizens, or nearly 22% of the population, were born outside of the country. Asia and the Middle East are the two regions from which recent immigrants to this country are most likely to have originated. Among the top 20 most prevalent ancestries listed by Canadians are Chinese, East Indian, and Filipino heritage. (2016 Canadian Census)
We have the chance to learn more about the numerous accomplishments and contributions made by Canadians of Asian ancestry who have helped to shape Canada into the nation we know and love throughout history during Asian Heritage Month. “Continuing a tradition of greatness” is the focus of Asian Heritage Month in 2022. This month serves as a reminder for all Canadians to work together to eliminate racism and prejudice against Asians in all of its manifestations.
Photo Courtesy: The Canadian Encyclopedia
The emphasis of this year’s theme, “Continuing a Legacy of Greatness,” is on the numerous, varied, and historic orientations that have helped Asian communities in Canada flourish. It also acknowledges the resiliency of communities in overcoming current difficulties. Asian Canadians and their communities have played a long-standing role in forming Canada’s heritage and identity.
Parks Canada wants to honor the legacy of Canadians of Asian descent during Asian Heritage Month by recalling the tales of extraordinary people and occasions, sometimes terrible, sometimes joyful, that have reshaped our landscapes and heritage.
Asian Origin Month, which celebrates the significant contributions of Canadians of Asian heritage to the creation of a lively and prosperous Canada, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
References: About Asian Heritage Month - Canada
May is Asian Heritage Month – Canada.ca
Asian Heritage Month (May) – Resources at Alberta Teachers
Written by John Mark Villafranca
John Mark Villafranca is a Digital Marketing Intern of PS Media Enterprise and a 3rd year Bachelor of Arts in Communication student of Batangas State University ARASOF.
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