Ottawa (30 April 2009) - May is Asian Heritage Month. The occasion acknowledges the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada. It also provides an opportunity for Canadians across the country to reflect on and celebrate the contributions of Asian Canadians to the growth and prosperity of Canada.
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) has prepared a poster to draw attention to the celebration. The poster is available to all who wish to make use of it. It may be downloaded by clicking here, or to order, contact NUPGE at national@nupge.ca.
NUPGE and MGEU believe that Canada’s cultural diversity strengthens the country socially, politically and economically. Asian Heritage Month is an ideal occasion for all to celebrate the beauty and wisdom of various Asian cultures.
Asian Heritage Month has been celebrated in the United States since 1979. Over the past decade, many Asians in Canada have begun to celebrate their heritage during the month of May. In December 2001, Senator Vivienne Poy introduced a motion in the Senate of Canada to designate May as Asian Heritage Month. The government of Canada officially recognized May as the Asian Heritage Month in May 2002.