Did you know that May is Asian Heritage Month? It’s an excellent opportunity for all Canadians to learn more about the many achievements and contributions of Canadians of Asian descent who, throughout our history, have done so much to make Canada the amazing country that we share today. Learn more about the Barrie Public Library’s celebration of Asian Heritage Month, through a variety of programming and book lists.
The history of Asian immigration in Canada can be traced back to more than one hundred and fifty years ago when Chinese workers arrived in the west coast and joined the workers to build the Pacific Railway in the mid-nineteenth century. Asian Canadians not only physically helped to build Canada, but also culturally enriched its diversity, which has become an important characteristic of Canada.
Asian Heritage Month began in Canada in 2001 when the first appointed Asian Senator, Vivienne Poy, proposed a motion in the Senate of Canada to acknowledge Asian Canadaians, and we have been celebrating ever since!
Asian Heritage Month Programming
Ann Hui: Chop Suey Nation – Thursday, May 20 from 12:00-1:00pm. Join us for this special presentation as we chat with journalist Ann Hui, author of the award winning book Chop Suey Nation: The Legion Café and Other Stories from Canada's Chinese Restaurants.
Historic Canada: Asian Heritage Month - Visit Historic Canada and celebrate Asian Heritage Month with videos, articles, testimonies, and more.
In Focus: Asian Heritage Month - May is Asian Heritage Month. Watch these National Film Board selections to learn about and celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Canadians of Asian descent.