May is Asian Heritage Month, where we acknowledge the many accomplishments and contributions of people of Asian origin who have done so much in the shaping of Canada as a country. While celebrated since the 90s, in May 2002 there was an official declaration to announce May as Asian Heritage Month:
Official declaration of Asian Heritage Month
Diversity represents one of Canada’s greatest strengths, and we strive to ensure that all people in Canada have the opportunity to reach their full potential and participate in Canada’s civic life.
Over the last 2 centuries, immigrants have journeyed to Canada from East Asia, Southern Asia, Western, Central and Southeast Asia, bringing our society a rich cultural heritage representing many languages, ethnicities and religious traditions.
The people of these diverse, vibrant and growing communities have contributed to every aspect of life in Canada — from the arts and science to sport, business and government.
Asian Heritage Month offers everyone in Canada an opportunity to learn more about the history of people of Asian origin in Canada and to celebrate their contributions to the growth and prosperity of our society.
Thereby, we declare May as Asian Heritage Month in Canada.
Asian Heritage Month Resources
- Vancouver 2023 Heritage Month Stats: https://www.statcan.gc.ca/en/dai/smr08/2023/smr08_272
- The Vancouver Asian Heritage Month Society (VAHMS) May Festival: https://vahms.ca/may-festival/
- Addressing Anti Racism Resources: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/asian-heritage-month/anti-asian-racism.html
