Acknowledge the rich history and culture of peoples of Asian descent; learn from the lived experiences of Canadians of Asian descent.

Over the past two centuries, individuals and families have immigrated to Halifax from East Asia, Southern Asian, Western and Southeast Asia. With them, these new Canadians brought a rich cultural heritage representing many languages, ethnicities and religious traditions.

In 2001, Senator Vivienne Poy, Canada’s first Chinese-Canadian senator, proposed a motion to designate May as Asian Heritage Month. In May 2002, the Government of Canada officially declared May as Asian Heritage Month in a formal ceremony.

This year, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Halifax Public Libraries, the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 and community members have worked together to create a variety of activities in the Halifax region. Stay tuned!