**** HRM Media Release
May is Asian Heritage Month
Celebrate the rich culture and history of peoples 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.
The theme for Asian Heritage Month 2020 is “Asian Canadians: United in Diversity,” reflecting the richness and diversity within the Asian communities as well as ways in which Asian Canadians have contributed to the building of our vibrant, inclusive and compassionate society.
Although festivities will look different this year, there are still plenty of ways to acknowledge Asian Heritage Month. The Government of Canada has created an Asian Heritage Month poster that you can download, print and colour at home. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Halifax Public Libraries and community members have been working together to create a virtual portal, where you will be able to learn more about Asian Canadians’ contributions to the growth and prosperity of our region (stay tuned for details).
