TORONTO, May 1, 2019 /CNW/ - "Diversity represents one of Canada's greatest strengths, and we strive to ensure that all Canadians have the opportunity to reach their full potential and participate in Canada's civic life. Over the last two centuries, immigrants have journeyed to Canada from East Asia, Southern Asia, Western and Southeast Asia, bringing our society a rich cultural heritage representing many languages, ethnicities and religious traditions. The people of this diverse, vibrant and growing community have contributed to every aspect of life in Canada — from the arts and science to sport, business, and government." – Official Declaration of Asian Heritage Month, May 2002.
The Canadian Race Relations Foundation proudly celebrates the culture and accomplishments of Canadians of Asian heritage.
"The story of the Asian community in Canada is one of courage in the face of adversity and accomplishment across many fields of endeavour,' said Teresa Woo-Paw, Chairperson of the Board, CRRF. "Members of this community have made their mark in the Arts and in Science. They have entertained us as actors and we have thrilled to their athletic achievements. They hold places of prominence in the justice system, law enforcement, and politics. As composers they have touched our hearts and, as soldiers, they have defended our freedoms. In them, Canada found worthy citizens. In Canada, they found a land that was worthy of being their home."
"Success did not come easily; discrimination and racism were everyday realities for this community," said Dr. Lilian Ma, CRRF Executive Director. "Government policies impeded their ability to come to this country and contributed to the separation of families through the imposition of immigration taxes and a system of quotas. Their battle against the attitudes of that time teach us important lessons about the challenges we face today and should give us strength to continue to build a strong and inclusive Canada."
To mark Asian Heritage Month, the Canadian Race Relations Foundation will be releasing the second in its Racism: Problems and Solutions video portrait series. This as-yet untitled video will focus on the story of Tam Goossen, as she shares her story of working towards a more equitable and inclusive education system in Toronto. This video is scheduled to premiere in late May, and more details can be found on the Canada Beyond 150: A Promise to Our Children website https://www.crrf-fcrr.ca/en/canada-beyond-150.
About the Canadian Race Relations Foundation
The purpose of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation is to facilitate throughout Canada the development, sharing and application of knowledge and expertise in order to contribute to the elimination of racism and all forms of racial discrimination in Canadian society. The work of the Foundation is premised on the desire to create and nurture an inclusive society based on equity, social harmony, mutual respect and human dignity. Its underlying principle in addressing racism and racial discrimination emphasizes positive race relations and the promotion of shared Canadian values of human rights and democratic institutions.
SOURCE Canadian Race Relations Foundation
Lilian Ma, 416 441-1900, [email protected]
Share this article