Author: Sabrina Rosa

 

We are excited to celebrate Asian Heritage Month this May in Canada. This is a great opportunity for all of us to learn more about the culture and history of the Asian communities in Canada. We also have the chance to acknowledge the achievements contributed by people of Asian origin, who made Canada the country we know today.

The theme for the 2024 Asian Heritage Month is “Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future: Amplifying Asian Canadian Legacy” which celebrates the heritage and contributions of the people of Asian origin in Canada, while looking forward to a hopeful future. The theme acknowledges the voices, stories, and achievements of people of Asian origin in Canada and recognize the contributions that have been made to society, whether it be arts, sports and social justice.

Diversity representation in Canada is one of our greatest strengths. In the last two centuries, immigrants have come to Canada from East, Southern, Western, Central and Southeast Asia, expanding the number of ethnicities and religions here. This month offers everyone in Canada the opportunity to learn more about this history, while also celebrating it.

Legal Direct’s celebrates Asian Heritage Month every year and is proud of its commitment to create a more inclusive and culturally aware workplace.

If you’re looking for something to do to celebrate Asian Heritage Month, here’s a few events around Toronto and Ottawa that you can look out for!

Events in Ottawa

1. 2024 Ottawa Chinatown Night Market

Opening on May 31st until June 2nd the Ottawa China Town Night Market will be thriving on Somerset St. West. Enjoy some delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere. The event brings together the best Asian cuisine in the city. You can sample at each of the food vendors from local restaurants.

2. Oto-Wa Taiko: Taiko Drumming Ottawa

Oto-Wa Taiko is a Japanese drumming group in Ottawa that have been together for over 30 years. They have many concerts throughout the year, and also offer performances and workshops that showcase the power of traditional Japanese taiko drum. One of their last performance was for the opening of UNIQLO in Bayshore! If you’re interested in workshops, check them out here.

3. Korean Cultural Centre Canada (KCC)

The KCC throws an event annually on Elgin Street and is a vibrant cultural hub that offers a range of activities, events and programs throughout the year. It shows the beauty and richness of Korean art, music and cuisine. You can take a Korean class, learn the art of paper folding, or try Korean cooking workshops.

Events in Toronto

  1. Filipino Night Market

At Scarborough Town Centre from May 31-June 2, 2024, kick off the summer with the Filipino Night Market which showcases traditional music, dance and art. Join them from 2-10 pm to celebrate with this year’s theme of Kultura (Culture), Kulinarya (Culinary), Kulintang (Music).

  1. Celebrating South Asian Business Leaders in Canada

On May 29 from 5-8 pm, the CASS is hosting a commemoration and panel discussion. Join them in learning the highlight contributions of South Asian business leaders in Canada while enjoying a dinner and drumming performance.

If you want to learn more about Asian Heritage month, check out these organizations and educational resources below!

  1. Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto

The community-focused centre is now home for the West to meet the East. It’s for all people in the community to come together and share their culture and promote cultural diversity.

2. Ottawa Asian Heritage Month Society

The Ottawa Asian Heritage Month Society is a non-profit organization of volunteers that organizes celebrations in the National Capital Region.

3. Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre

This centre facilitates the exchange of information about Japanese culture with the community through programs. They also build harmony among people in different cultures by throwing events. They have several events throughout the year and was even part of Doors Open Toronto this year. Check out the Toronto Japanese Film Festival coming up in June if you want to get involved.

4. Canadian Multicultural Council (CMC)

This council is based in Toronto and represents more than 20 Asian Canadian associations.  It was created in 1988 to promote inter-cultural cooperation and harmony within them. Throughout the month of May, there is a food drive in Scarborough where all donations will go to Daily Bread Food Bank.

5. Council of Agencies Serving South Asians (CASSA)

This council is an umbrella organization of agencies, groups and individuals in the South Asian Community. They facilitate the economic, social, political and cultural empowerment of South Asians. This council serves as a resource for information, research, and leadership on social justice issues that affect the communities.