Why is Asian Heritage Month important?

Diversity represents one of Canada’s greatest strengths, and we strive to ensure that all people in Canada can reach their full potential and participate in civic life.

Over the last two 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.

Resources:

• Celebrate Canada’s Asian Heritage (YouTube)
• Canada.ca – Asian Heritage Month
• Noteworthy Canadians of Asian Heritage: These short biographies highlight some of the many valuable contributions made by Canadians of Asian heritage. They reflect historical and cultural milestones that help define the rich and significant history of communities of Asian heritage in Canada.
• Addressing Anti-Asian Racism: Racism, in any form, is unacceptable and has no place in Canada. Now, and not just during Asian Heritage Month, we need to raise awareness of the challenges faced by these communities across Canada and to confront and denounce all forms of anti-Asian racism and discrimination.