May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada!
Asian Heritage Month is a time for all Canadians to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian Canadians to our country. Markham, with its vibrant Asian community, is a perfect place to explore and appreciate the many facets of Asian heritage. Join us this May as we honor and reflect on the past, present, and future of Asian communities in Markham and beyond!
Why We Celebrate Asian Heritage Month
Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of Canadians of Asian descent, who have played a vital role in shaping Canada's history and culture.
And, unfortunately, it is also a time to reflect on the resilience and perseverance of Asian Canadians in the face of systemic barriers, discrimination, and racism experienced both in the past and in the present. To learn more about the government of Canada's commitments to combat hate, Read Minister Khera’s official statement. To learn more about anti-Asian racism and resources for combatting it, you might want to check out the Asian Pacific Foundation of Canada's education page.
In celebration of the enormous contributions to Canada by Canadians of Asian Heritage, this Government of Canada catalogue of short biographies of "Noteworthy Canadians of Asian Heritage" will be sure to further or refresh your learning.
Looking for 2024 Asian Heritage Month Events?
Throughout the month of May, Markham Public Library will be hosting a variety of exciting programs and events to celebrate Asian Heritage Month. From cultural performances to educational workshops, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the highlights:
2024 Asian Heritage Month Events at Markham Public Library
（中文）万锦市华人中小企业论坛——AI趋势、政府资讯、资源分享、咨询服务 Markham Chinese Small Business Forum
Wednesday May 8th 10-12pm, Markham Civic Centre – Council Chamber.
在新国土上重新起航，挑战多、困难大；
梦想中的创业，步步扎实则更需勇气智慧与担当。
不论你是初探创业梦，或已小成于商海茫茫， 或仅寻一职以立足，万锦一年一度华人商会，诚邀你前往。
在此，不仅有政府扶持，小企业服务，扶助金详谈， 图书馆与社区资源分享，还有更多机构资源待发掘。
华商网络、移民服务、就业培训，各公益组织彰显无私服务； 法律、财务咨询一对一，专业人士，语言不成障碍。
与百余商界同仁、新移民交流合作； 万锦至广大GTA同行，经验心得，信息共享。
为构建全方位交流平台，现场信息展板等你展示， 宣传资料、招聘启示、名片等，尽情张贴，共襄橱窗。
期待，于万锦市府相聚；在这里，每一步都坚实，每一梦都值得期望。
Starting anew in a new country and launching a business are both daunting tasks. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, an established business owner, or seeking employment, join us at the Markham Chinese Small Business Forum. Gain support from the City of Markham's Small Business Services, learn about grants, access public resources, and gain insights from non-profits in business, immigration, and employment. Benefit from free consultations with Chinese-speaking legal and financial experts.
Asian Heritage Month Dance Performance & Lesson
Saturday, May 11th 1:00pm-2:00pm, Milliken Mills Branch
Join us for a special Chinese dance performance to celebrate Asian Heritage Month. The performance will also be followed by a free dance lesson, so don't forget to bring your dancing shoes!
Celebrating Asian Heritage Through Tea
Saturday, May 18th 10:30am-1:00pm, Aaniin Branch
Join us for a delightful exploration of Asian cultures through the art of tea! 🍵✨ this celebration will feature expert presentations and tea ceremonies highlighting diverse traditions from various Asian communities. Presentations will take place in the Program Room at Aaniin Library, however throughout the branch, kids can also enjoy crafts such as lantern-making, tea-themed colouring, and a tea-themed storytime! (starting at 10:00AM). *Refreshments and tea will be offered to all attendees*
Fireside Chat with Alex Wong (Author of Prehistoric)
Thursday, May 23rd, 7:00-8:00pm, Angus Glen Branch
Join us for a cozy fireside chat with writer, author, and content producer, Alex Wong, who recently published Prehistoric: The Audacious and Improbable Origin Story of the Toronto Raptors. We’ll chat about the Raptors, his writing, career and what it was like for him growing up in Markham
Regular Monthly Programs at Markham Public Library:
Plain Tea Murukku
Sunday, May 19th, 3:00-4:00pm, Aaniin Branch
Join us to enjoy plain tea and murukku while enjoying the game of cards, loodo, carom, and other activities with other older adults. This program is in partnership with the Federation of Tamil Canadians collaborating with Boxgrove Wellness Club. This drop-in program does not require pre-registration and it is open to the public.
Mandarin Read and Fest
Saturday, May 25th, 10:30am-12:00pm, Angus Glen Branch
Join Wukong Education for a monthly Mandarin Read and Fest to explore Chinese literature. Families of all ages and backgrounds are invited to explore the beauty of Chinese books, short stories, and poems in both the original language and through translation. Families will participate in festival-like hands-on activities, including crafts and games traditional to celebrations in China.
Tamil Stories, Songs, and Fun
Monday, May 27th, 6:00-7:00pm, Aaniin Branch
Mini Tamil stories, songs and fun in Tamil. Federation of Tamil Canadians in partnership with Middlefield Tamil Seniors will be facilitating a Tamil reading program for younger children between the ages of 4 and 10. This program is drop-in, and does not require registration.
Stay tuned for more updates and event announcements throughout the month. Let us know how you are celebrating, and don’t forget to follow us on social media to stay in the loop @markhamlibrary
We also encourage you to check out these works of fiction and non-fiction written by Canadian authors of Asian heritage, or explore the voices, culture, and experiences of children with these picture books. Happy Asian Heritage Month to all!
May is Asian Heritage Month! Celebrate and explore the voices, culture, and experiences of children with these picture books.
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