News Release

Kamloops, British Columbia – Canada annually designates the month of May to celebrate the culture, history, and contributions of Asian Canadians. The history of Asian Canadians in Canada can be traced back to the 19th century. They have made significant contributions to the development of Canadian society and multiculturalism. Asian Heritage Month aims to raise public awareness and understanding of the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Canadians. During Asian Heritage Month, various cultural activities, exhibitions, and performances will be held across Canada to showcase the culture and history of Asian Canadians and provide opportunities to strengthen cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.

Contributions of Chinese Canadians

Whether in the economic, cultural, or social fields, Chinese Canadians have had a profound impact on Canadian history. Their courage and creativity have made indelible contributions to the prosperity and development of Canada. Additionally, Chinese people have promoted the progress of multiculturalism and cross-cultural understanding in Canada, making efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable society.

Construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway

In the late 19th century, the Canadian government planned to build a railway through the western part of Canada to connect the east and west coasts. Due to the huge scale, long construction period, and harsh working conditions, the Canadian government hired a large number of Chinese laborers to participate in the construction. According to historical records, about 15,000 Chinese laborers participated in the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Most of these laborers were farmers from Guangdong Province. They were not afraid of hardships, often working in extreme weather conditions, enduring tremendous physical and psychological pressure, and frequently facing danger and death.

The work of Chinese laborers in the construction of the railway was extensive, including blasting mountains, excavating soil, transporting materials, driving piles, building bridges, and laying tracks.

Their labor achievements were significant; the construction speed of the railway increased, and the cost decreased significantly. However, Chinese laborers suffered many injustices during the construction of the Pacific Railway, such as forced labor and discrimination. The wages of Chinese laborers were only half or even less than those of white laborers, and they also faced longer working hours and more dangerous working environments. In addition, Chinese laborers suffered many injustices during the construction of the railway, such as racial discrimination and violent attacks.

Despite these injustices, Chinese laborers remained resilient and made important contributions to the construction of the Pacific Railway. Their courage and perseverance created an important chapter in Canadian history, and their contributions should be acknowledged and respected.

Participation in Two World Wars

Chinese Canadians made significant contributions to Canada in both World Wars. Although Chinese people faced severe discrimination and unfair treatment at the time, they still volunteered to participate in the wars.

During World War I, many Chinese people volunteered to join the Canadian army. They fought against Germany as soldiers and performed outstandingly in battles led by Lieutenant Colonel Francis Higginson. Additionally, many Chinese people also joined the British and French armies to fight for the Allies, including hundreds of Canadian Chinese.

During World War II, the Canadian government lifted its discriminatory policies against Chinese people and began recruiting Chinese people into the military. Many Chinese people volunteered to join the Canadian army and performed excellently in Europe and the Asia-Pacific war zones, participating in many important battles and operations, including from the Normandy landings to the liberation of the Netherlands.

Additionally, many Chinese people made important contributions to logistical support. Chinese people provided a lot of support to the military, including providing food, supplies, and infrastructure support. In the Asia-Pacific region, many Chinese people also served as translators, spies, and guerrillas, helping the Allies fight against the Japanese army.

After the war, Chinese people continued to contribute to Canada. Many Chinese people participated in the reconstruction of the Canadian economy and played important roles in society and politics.

Overall, the contributions of Chinese people in the two World Wars cannot be ignored. Despite facing discrimination and unfair treatment, they still selflessly participated in the wars and made important contributions to Canada’s freedom, democracy, and national security.